Governor Aiyedatiwa, Party Leaders Deliberate on State and Political Affairs
The Ondo State Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) convened its first-ever meeting on Saturday, August 9, 2025, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
Comprising key figures from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, the council is tasked with providing strategic advice and support to the Governor, fostering both effective governance and the advancement of the ruling party.
Chief Pius Akinyelure, former Chairman of the Board of Directors of NNPC Limited and ex-National Vice Chairman of the APC, chairs the council. Hon. Isaac Kekemeke, the party’s National Vice Chairman (South West) and former Secretary to the State Government, serves as Secretary.
The inaugural session took place behind closed doors at the Government House Banquet Hall in Akure, attended by council members including Akinyelure and Kekemeke. Discussions centered on state development initiatives under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration and strategies for strengthening the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This meeting followed closely on the heels of the party’s recent Caucus meeting and precedes a planned general stakeholders assembly.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Chief Akinyelure described the gathering as productive, emphasizing the goal of enhancing collaboration between the government and the party. “The Governor is very pleased with the outcomes. Our focus was on growing the party and ensuring the success of the government led by Mr. Governor. Our role is to bridge the gap to foster a smooth and effective partnership,” he stated.
Pastor Bankole Oluwajana, former APC National Vice Chairman (Southwest), praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for establishing the council, noting that the closed-door format encouraged open and honest dialogue. “This forum allows us, as elders, to offer valuable suggestions. With this positive momentum, the sky is the limit for Ondo State. The Governor’s inclusive approach fosters unity, putting past differences aside,” he remarked.
Former Senator Prof. Ajayi Boroffice highlighted the council’s advisory role in shaping policy and promoting party cohesion. “We are here to revitalize the Government Advisory Council and provide the Governor with guidance on his policies and party unity. The Governor has demonstrated commendable leadership by settling salaries, avoiding debt accumulation, and addressing previous financial obligations promptly,” Boroffice said.
Chief Jamiu Ekungba and Hon. Awodeyi Akinsehinwa Apata also expressed support for the council, stressing its importance in strengthening the party ahead of upcoming elections.
Hon. Kekemeke summarized the meeting’s objectives as stabilizing both the government and the party. “We shared valuable experience with the Governor and resolved key issues. It was reaffirmed that the Governor remains the leader of the party in Ondo. Support groups, especially presidential ones, should back the party and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s aspirations, not create divisions. We are satisfied with the Governor’s performance and encouraged broader stakeholder engagement. Our party is united, with no factions, and we advocated for inclusive leadership at the local government level,” he explained.
Other notable attendees included former Deputy Governor Alhaji Ali Olanusi, General Funso Oyenehin (rtd), Ambassador Sola Iji, Chief Bode Sunmonu, Hon. Mayowa Akinfolarin, Dr. Ayodeji Oyedele, and Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State
August 9, 2025
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