Natasha rallies support for Ekiti PDP gov candidate

The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has thrown her weight behind the Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Oluwole Oluyede, describing him as a competent and people-oriented leader capable of driving development and inclusive governance in the state.

Akpoti-Uduaghan made the endorsement during the grand finale of the PDP governorship campaign in Ado-Ekiti ahead of the June 20 governorship election.

According to a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday by her media aide, Mike Idoko, the senator spent several days touring communities across the state to mobilise support for the PDP candidate.

Addressing party supporters and members of the Ebira community at the campaign event, the lawmaker said Oluyede possessed the experience, vision and commitment needed to tackle the challenges confronting the state and improve the welfare of residents.

She said, “Dr. Oluwole Oluyede is a leader who understands the needs of the people. He is not disconnected from the grassroots. He has listened to the cries of market women, youths, civil servants and community leaders across the state.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan noted that the PDP candidate had consistently demonstrated concern for ordinary citizens and had the leadership qualities required to provide purposeful governance.

The senator further described Oluyede as a bridge-builder capable of uniting people across ethnic, religious and social divides while ensuring equitable opportunities for all residents.

“One of the reasons I am strongly supporting Dr Oluyede is his commitment to building an inclusive government where every group and community has a sense of belonging. Leadership should be about service, fairness and equal opportunities for all,” she stated.

With the governorship election days away, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed confidence in the ability of Ekiti voters to make informed choices, noting that the state’s electorate was politically conscious and well-positioned to assess the credentials of those seeking public office.

“Ekiti people are proudly educated and politically enlightened people. I believe they know who truly has the capacity, compassion and experience to govern the state effectively. This election is about choosing progress, inclusion and a better future for the state,” she said.

The Kogi Central senator also highlighted her grassroots mobilisation efforts, revealing that she visited several communities, including Ikole-Ekiti, Ilasa and other settlements with sizeable Ebira populations, where she encouraged residents to participate actively in the electoral process.

“We have moved from settlement to settlement speaking to our people. We are encouraging them to support a candidate who will prioritise development, inclusion, peace and prosperity for all. Every vote will count on June 20, and every citizen must play a role in shaping the future of Ekiti State,” she added.

Akpoti-Uduaghan maintained that Oluyede’s accessibility, development agenda and grassroots connection set him apart from other contestants in the race.

She therefore urged eligible voters to turn out in large numbers on election day and support the PDP candidate.

“Dr. Oluyede is a tested and trusted leader with the interest of the people at heart. I urge all eligible voters to come out peacefully, exercise their democratic rights and support a leader who is prepared to serve with dedication, competence and integrity,” she said.

The June 20 governorship election is expected to be keenly contested, with political parties intensifying campaigns across the state in a bid to sway voters.

The PDP campaign grand finale attracted party leaders, stakeholders, youth groups, women organisations and supporters from across Ekiti State, who expressed optimism about the party’s chances at the polls.