The race for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency in Ondo State is heating up, drawing attention from political observers and constituents alike.
With an intriguing blend of ambition, legacy, and grassroots support, the three leading contenders—Hon. Jimi Odimayo, Dr. Olumuyiwa Daramola, and Chief Bidemi Obayangban are engaged in a fierce battle that could shape the future of representation in the region.
Odimayo, the incumbent, is leveraging his established position in the House of Representatives to secure a second term. His influence in Abuja is significant, yet he faces a critical challenge from within and outside the party. The zoning arrangement, which has historically favoured a rotation between Irele and Okitipupa, casts a shadow over Odimayo’s aspirations.
Critics have taken to social media to remind him of his own statements about the zoning system, which suggests that Irele should only serve one term, while Okitipupa should enjoy two. This historical context raises questions about whether Odimayo can successfully navigate the political landscape to retain his seat.
In contrast, Starnews NG reports that Olumuyiwa Daramola, son of the former Minister for Niger Delta Affairs, is banking on his political pedigree and experience as a repeated aspirant. Daramola’s connection to his father’s influence may resonate with some party leaders, but his effectiveness in mobilising local support remains in question. His political experience is a double-edged sword; while it provides him with a network, it also raises concerns about his local engagement compared to his rivals, particularly Obayangban, who has been a long-standing figure in the Ikale political landscape.
Bidemi Obayangban emerges as a formidable contender in this contest, bringing a wealth of grassroots credibility and a reputation built over decades of political involvement. As a former aide to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Obayangban has cultivated a strong local presence and is well-known within the community.
His longstanding engagement in politics has earned him respect among constituents, who regard him as a genuine advocate for their interests. Unlike Daramola, who has spent considerable time abroad, and Odimayo, whose recent political foray has raised eyebrows, Obayangban’s deep roots in the region position him as a relatable and trustworthy candidate.
As the dynamics of the race continue to evolve, the strategic manoeuvring among the candidates becomes increasingly apparent. With Governor Aiyedatiwa’s influence looming over the proceedings, the anticipation of a clear endorsement from the APC leader adds another layer of complexity to the contest. Political insiders suggest that Aiyedatiwa’s support will be crucial in determining the party’s consensus candidate, particularly as the APC prepares for the upcoming 2027 elections.
The political history of Okitipupa/Irele further complicates the landscape. Since the return to democracy in 1999, the constituency has seen a rotation of representation that has historically favoured Okitipupa over Irele. This historical precedent reinforces the notion that the time has come for Okitipupa to reclaim the seat, thus heightening the stakes for Odimayo in favour of Obayangban and Daramola.
As the battle intensifies, it is evident that each candidate is leveraging their strengths to appeal to the electorate. Odimayo continues to wield his incumbent advantage, but must grapple with the implications of zoning. Daramola seeks to draw upon his family’s legacy, yet must address concerns about his local presence. Meanwhile, Obayangban is poised to capitalise on his grassroots support and political experience, making him a compelling choice for the APC and the general public.
The APC ticket for Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency hangs in the balance, while the rivalry among Odimayo, Daramola, and Obayangban promises to deliver a gripping political narrative. Each candidate brings unique attributes to the table, but only one will emerge victorious in this high-stakes contest. As the dust settles and the party prepares to make its choice, the question remains: who will ultimately secure the APC nomination, and how will this decision shape the political landscape in the region? The answer is yet to unfold, but the anticipation is palpable, Starnews NG reports.
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