Southwest leaders yesterday spoke on next year’s presidential election and its implications for the country’s future.
They endorsed All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential standard bearer Asiwjau Bola Tinubu, saying that his leadership will usher in a new era of hope, socio-economic growth and political development.
The endorsement meeting was hosted in Akure, capital of Ondo State, by Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti, who prayed for Tinubu’s success at the poll.
The APC candidate, who stormed Fasoranti’s residence with some party stalwarts, was received by prominent Southwest leaders, including Gen. Alani Akinrinade, Gen. Olu Bajowa, Dr. Kunle Olajide, Secretary of Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE), Chief Bisi Akande, Chief Olusegun Osoba and Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu.
Leaders at the meeting came from the six Southwest states of Oyo, Ondo, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti, and Lagos; and Kwara and Kogi.
Tinubu presented his blueprint for a greater and more prosperous Nigeria to the Afenifere leader and other elders.
A statement by Afenifere National Organising Secretary Abagun Kole Omololu said the leaders were in one accord as they gave Tinubu their nod.
He said: “Having taken cognisance of his commendable antecedents as Lagos State governor and his demonstrated ability in building physical and human capital, the Yoruba leaders at today’s meeting are in no doubt that Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria offers the best opportunity to produce a government that will usher in a new era of hope, peace, security, harmony, gainful employment for the multitude, economic development, social and political stability.
“We were also assured us of his commitment to the promotion of true federalism that will give states more control over their affairs. Afenifere wishes him success in the pursuit of his vision.
The meeting urged other presidential candidates to utilise similar opportunities to articulate their vision.”