The main contenders, including Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Olusola Oke, Isaac Kekemeke, Mayowa Akinfolarin, Wale Akinterinwa, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Gbenga Edema, Dr. Paul Akintelure, and Jimi Odumayo, are reportedly intensifying their efforts to gain support.

According to reports from Vanguard, these aspirants are strategically reaching out to influential figures with proximity to the presidency, such as the first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the President’s daughter, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo.

Intriguingly, overtures have also been extended to key personalities outside the APC, including the national leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, and the Umar Ganduje-led National Working Committee of the APC.

Amidst the political maneuvering, sources suggest that the party is contemplating the possibility of endorsing a neutral candidate, someone untouched by the recent political upheavals in the state preceding the demise of the late governor, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu.

Meanwhile, the Akeredolu family, led by his widow, Betty, is reportedly throwing its support behind the gubernatorial ambition of the former state finance commissioner, Wale Akinterinwa.

In a noteworthy development, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Mayowa Akinfolarin, is said to have garnered support from influential figures such as the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Interior Minister, Mr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. The political landscape in Ondo State is undeniably charged as these aspirants navigate the intricate web of alliances and endorsements in the lead-up to the crucial primaries.