Ondo 2024: Journalist joins guber race, promises socio-economic development

Ahead of the governorship election in Ondo state, a journalist and publisher, Adeleke Collins Olagundoye, has declared his intention to contest in the election under the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC).

Olagundoye, who is the state coordinator of both the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ) and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), said he decided to contest in the forthcoming election to turn around the fortune of the state through developmental programmes and policies.

According to him, he said his desire to contest the April primary election of the APC was borne out of his commitment to build on the legacies of the APC government in both the state and the federal level in the interest of the masses.

He said his passion for development of the state is unequal, assuring the people of the state that his blueprint will harness the potential of the state for socio-economic development.

Olagundoye, while making his declaration in Akure, the Ondo state capital, on Tuesday said he has conceptualised a policy framework tagged Ondo SMART project, which includes Socio-Economic Mobility, Modernization, Autonomy, Agriculture, Resources, and Technology.

He said, “This is not merely a political agenda but a comprehensive plan—a promise to deliver good governance and prosperity to our state.

“The Ondo SMART project of my administration is a testament to our commitment to building a Smart Sunshine State that stands as a model of progress and inclusivity.

“That is why in my pursuit of a vibrant and resourceful governance, I pledge to steer the ship of Ondo State towards socio-economic growth, reducing unemployment and poverty to nearly zero point.

“Imagine an Ondo State where insecurity, healthcare concerns, poverty, and food shortages are mere relics of the past—where our elderly revel in the security of a well organised social security system.

“I draw inspiration from the resilience of the All Progressives Congress, echoing the words of Winston Churchill, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that count.

“We stand on the shoulders of incredible achievements at both the Federal and State levels, and I commit to building upon this legacy and support.

“So let us embrace the change we seek, for it is through change that we forge a brighter tomorrow. I cannot achieve this change alone.

“I humbly ask you to join me in this noble and historic mission and together, let us script a new chapter in the history of Ondo State—a chapter defined by progress, inclusivity, and the unwavering spirit of the Sunshine people.

“Yes, Together, we can make Ondo State the envy of all. Together, we can make Ondo State the home we all want it to be.”