After sorting out the votes in the just concluded People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governorship primary election in Ondo State, former Deputy Governor, Hon Ajayi Agboola, has clinched victory, securing 264 votes out of the 621 cast.
The primary election, which saw seven aspirants vying for the party’s ticket, concluded with Agboola emerging as the favoured candidate among delegates.
The announcement was made by Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the deputy governor of Bayelsa and chair of the electoral committee overseeing the primary, in Akure, the state capital.
Born on September 24, 1968, Agboola Ajayi began his political career under the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). He later joined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and held various roles within the party, including Secretary of PDP in Ilaje/Ese Odo LGA and Supervisor for Agriculture and Works in Ese-Odo LGA.
His political experience extended to national politics, serving as a member of the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011, representing Ilaje/Ese Odo federal constituency under the PDP. During his tenure, Ajayi chaired the House Committee on NDDC from 2007 to 2010, showcasing his leadership abilities and legislative acumen.
Agboola Ajayi’s political trajectory took a pivotal turn when he defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in June 2020. His decision was fueled by what he described as ‘irreconcilable differences’ between him and late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. Subsequently, Mr Ajayi contested the PDP gubernatorial primaries in Ondo State in 2020 under the Zenith Labour Party after losing the PDP ticket to Eyitayo Jegede.
Beyond politics, Ajayi Agboola is known for his legal expertise and business acumen. Married to Chief Ajewole Agboola Ajayi JP, he maintains a balance between his professional and personal life, embodying a commitment to public service and family values.
The victory in the PDP gubernatorial primary has positioned Ajayi Agboola as a formidable contender in the upcoming November governorship election in Ondo State, setting the stage for a competitive gubernatorial election as the former deputy governor will face off with the successor of his administration and major opponent, Lucky Ayedatiwa among other candidates come November 2024.
