Ondo governor Rotimi Akeredolu said, Bola Tinubu of the All Progressive Congress (APC) is capable of tremendously improving Nigeria’s democracy.
Mr Akeredolu also urged Nigerians to vote for him in next month’s presidential polls.
“As the 2023 general elections approach, let us make a conscious effort to deepen our democratic gains by electing a competent candidate as the next president,” the governor said in the statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde, on Sunday, adding that “Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is capable of improving our democracy tremendously.”
Mr Akeredolu, who also doubles as Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum (SGF), has remained unwavering in his support for the former Lagos governor since he emerged as presidential contender.
Mr Tinubu, 70, would join at least seventeen other candidates in the February 25 presidential election including Messrs Atiku Abubakar (PDP), Peter Obi (LP), and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the NNPP.
The APC candidate, believed to have health challenges, has repeatedly informed Nigerians that he’s most qualified for the country’s top job.
He had also claimed that he deserved to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari based on his (Tinubu) antecedents, especially as a two-term former governor of Lagos.
Speaking further, Mr Akeredolu said Nigerians should consider the track records of the candidates participating in the 2023 race to form their support.
He again reiterated that religion should not determine who to vote in the election, saying that Nigerians are too sophisticated to be tricked by politicians who play religion as a brand of politics.
“Let’s promote capacity over religious affinity. We must not jettison track records and established reach over shallow hatred.
“We are too sophisticated to be pawns in the hands of tricky politicians who play religion as a brand of politics. We must be decisive without succumbing to the whims of speculations and rumours,” he added.
Mr Akeredolu asserted that the people needed to intensify prayers for a peaceful conduct of the nation’s general elections. The governor urged compatriots to rededicate themselves to the unity and progress of the nation.
“2023 is a very crucial year, especially in the life of our country. We must be deliberate in making the right choices. Our collective targets must showcase our respect for our diverse interests,” the governor said.
