Alliances are not only strong because they comprise at least two parties or entities. They are also powerful when they are formed at just the right time. For Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, this is not the best time for an alliance to form against his gubernatorial ambitions. With new changes to the dynamics, his odds of victory fluctuate more intensely.
The latest significant change to the established gubernatorial dynamic in Ondo is the decision of one of the aspirants to join another. The retreating aspirant in question is Princess Oladunni Odu, the former Secretary to the State Government and gubernatorial aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The gaining aspirant is Senator Jimoh Ibrahim.
Before now, Odu had posed a significant threat to other aspirants, especially Governor Aiyedatiwa, with her “Iwajowa Political Group.” Being a former top official of the state, she wields considerable influence over grassroots loyalty, especially among the womenfolk. It was consequently surprising when Odu announced her decision to jump ship and join Ibrahim in his gubernatorial quest.
Presently, Odu has already directed her followers to gather under Ibrahim’s “Aseyori Group” umbrella, ready to support him at any time. With the APC primary scheduled for April and Odu’s actions coming just a month before, other aspirants are in trouble and must now develop measures to protect their interests and ambitions.
Although no one is exactly sure why Odu decided to disintegrate her flag and throw her weight behind Ibrahim, Ibrahim is now recognised as a tiger with wings. Adding in Odu’s antagonistic relationship with Governor Aiyedatiwa, the latter’s chances of retaining the seat have plummeted noticeably.
The lines have been redrawn in Ondo and Princess Odu has taken her final side. Senator Ibrahim is getting more and more compatible with the number-one office in the state.
