Ondo 2024 Governorship Election: Key Facts About Ajayi Agboola, PDP Candidate

• The 2024 Ondo governorship election on November 16 is expected to be highly competitive, with issues like economic recovery and security at the forefront
• PDP’s Ajayi Agboola, former deputy governor, runs on a platform of stability and continuity, drawing on his prior experience
• Agboola’s main opponents include APC’s Lucky Aiyedatiwa, LP’s Ayodele Olorunfemi, and SDP’s Olusegun Oyebolu, each bringing unique priorities to the race

Akure, Ondo state - The 2024 Ondo governorship election, scheduled for November 16, is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive race that mirrors Ondo State’s shifting political dynamics.

Among the top contenders, Ajayi Agboola of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has centered his campaign on stability and continuity, drawing from his experience as a former deputy governor.

Legit.ng has put together key facts that shed light on Agboola’s background and campaign objectives as he aims to secure Ondo's top office.

Early life and education

Alfred Agboola Ajayi was born on September 24, 1968, in Kiribo Town, Ese Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

He attended Community High School in Kiribo and completed his secondary education at Methodist High School in Okitipupa.

Ajayi later earned a law degree from Igbinedion University in Edo State and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2010.

Agboola's political early begining

Ajayi's political career began in the late 1980s with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where he served as the chairman of his local ward.

By 1998, he had joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he quickly rose through the ranks, holding key positions in local government councils and gaining experience in agricultural and infrastructural oversight.

Rise to Deputy Governor

Ajayi was elected deputy governor of Ondo State in 2016, running alongside Rotimi Akeredolu under the All Progressives Congress (APC) banner.

He served in this capacity from 2017 to 2021, navigating both collaborative and contentious times with the governor.

Agboola's war with late Akeredolu

In June 2020, Ajayi left the APC, citing “irreconcilable differences” with Governor Akeredolu and dissatisfaction with the party's leadership.

He rejoined the PDP shortly thereafter, positioning himself as a voice for those disillusioned with the ruling party’s governance style.

After defecting to the PDP in 2020, Ajayi faced pressure from the APC and Governor Akeredolu to resign his post as deputy governor.

He refused, asserting his elected mandate and challenging his opponents in court, underscoring his commitment to serve his term while remaining loyal to his new party.

Brief stint with the Zenith Labour Party

After losing the PDP primary election to Eyitayo Jegede in 2020, Ajayi switched to the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) to run in the gubernatorial race.

Although he didn’t win, the experience expanded his political network and demonstrated his determination to pursue leadership roles.

House of Representatives tenure

Ajayi previously served in Nigeria’s House of Representatives, representing the Ilaje/Ese Odo Federal Constituency.

During his tenure, he chaired the House Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from 2007 to 2010, where he advocated for regional development and oversaw initiatives to address local issues.

A major advocate of security and stability

Ajayi has pledged to tackle security issues that have affected the state in recent years.

He emphasizes the need for effective law enforcement and community-based strategies to ensure stability and safety for all Ondo residents, a message resonating with communities facing challenges with local crime.

Agboola's political career and legal controversies

Throughout his political career, Ajayi has faced controversies, including accusations in 2019 of misrepresenting his employment status when applying to the Nigerian Law School.

Despite legal and political battles, including allegations of opposition from Governor Akeredolu, Ajayi has maintained his position and continued to advance his political ambitions.

Ondo 2024: How Agboola clinched PDP guber ticket

In April 2024, Agboola secured the PDP’s nomination with a decisive victory in the party’s primaries, obtaining 264 votes, well ahead of his closest rival, Kolade Akinjo, who received 157 votes.

The primary election was conducted peacefully with 621 delegates, signifying robust support within the party.

Agboola’s running mate is Samuel Ogunmusi, selected for his experience and complementary skill set, expected to strengthen the PDP’s bid to lead Ondo.

Ondo 2024: Agboola's governorship bid, campaign promises

Ajayi’s campaign has prioritized several key issues, including youth empowerment, agricultural development, enhanced educational infrastructure, and public safety.

He has pledged to address Ondo’s socioeconomic challenges and promote opportunities for growth across the state, especially in rural communities.

Ondo 2024: Peter Obi drums support for Labour Party candidate

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that ahead of the Ondo State governorship election, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has said the Labour Party's candidate, Hon. Sola Ebiseni, has the right potential to ensure holistic development in the state.

Obi, undeterred by the numerous challenges facing Nigeria's electoral system, also reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to democracy.

The former Anambra state governor made this call in a statement shared via his official X social media handle.