Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa Clarifies Decision On Certificate Of Return Presentation
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has addressed speculations surrounding his decision not to present his Certificate of Return to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje. The governor clarified that the move was not an act of disrespect but a deliberate choice rooted in party protocol.
Aiyedatiwa, who secured reelection in the recently concluded polls, received his Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday in Abuja. Following the presentation, he led a delegation of Ondo APC leaders to the party’s national secretariat, where they met members of the APC National Working Committee (NWC).
Despite the warm reception, Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Adelami Olaide, chose not to present their certificates to Ganduje. Addressing the decision, Aiyedatiwa explained that he felt the honour of receiving the certificate should first go to President Bola Tinubu, as the party’s leader.
“I am supposed to first of all present the certificate to Mr. President, the leader of this party. But he is not in town,” Aiyedatiwa said. “That is why I cannot present the certificate to Mr. Chairman first. It is not a case of being disrespectful; it is simply about doing what I believe is right.”
The governor further acknowledged the leadership of Abdullahi Ganduje, commending his efforts since assuming the role of APC National Chairman. “Since he took over as chairman, we have not lost any election. I recognise and appreciate the leadership he provides for this party,” Aiyedatiwa noted.
This clarification comes amidst discussions within political circles, emphasizing the importance of protocol and party unity. Aiyedatiwa’s gesture underscores his commitment to the party hierarchy and his respect for its leadership structure.
