Who Gets Tinubu’s Support between Aiyedatiwa and Ibrahim?
When the tiger is not on the mountain, the monkey wears a crown on its head and prances about. This Chinese proverb fits the current political condition in Ondo, the Sunshine State. Set against the background of the forthcoming gubernatorial election, a cloud has started to cover this radiance, as aspirants lay siege against one another.
Among the main contenders for the Ondo State seat, the top giants are the incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim, Senator for Ondo South. The choice of who will sit in Akure to rule over the good people of Ondo may be decided between the two.
In truth, there’s a lot more to the narrative than meets the eye. For example, in terms of support, it seems that Senator Ibrahim is in a better position compared to Aiyedatiwa. This is odd considering that Aiyedatiwa is currently occupying the number one seat of power in the state. But given how he got there, it all makes sense.
Aiyedatiwa came aboard after his principal, the former governor of Ondo, Rotimi Akeredolu, passed away. Following the dictates of the law, Aiyedatiwa who was Akeredolu’s deputy, took over. But the replacement was not smooth as Aiyedatiwa had been facing opposition long before Akeredolu passed on.
The main determinant of who will win the elections may just be decided on who has the most support, particularly from President Bola Tinubu. Many commentators think that this will be Ibrahim since he has always had something of a harmonious relationship with the president.
Only a handful of people think that Tinubu will stand by Aiyedatiwa, the reason behind that Aiyedatiwa reportedly did not follow Tinubu’s suggestions for the governor’s cabinet. Perhaps Tinubu remains displeased and will displace Aiyedatiwa if given the opportunity.
Until the choice is made between them, come November 16, 2024, nothing is certain. But whoever Tinubu supports has a higher chance of winning the gubernatorial election. The one that loses is the monkey on the mountain.