The Ondo South Senatorial bye-election marks a pivotal moment for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the district. With a wealth of qualified aspirants ready to carry the party’s banner, the focus is not on rivalry but on collective strength and shared vision. The challenge before stakeholders is to identify who can best step into Senator Jimoh Ibrahim’s shoes while fostering cohesion, reinforcing the party’s foundation, and inspiring renewed confidence among the people of Ondo South.
In this spirit, Hon. Mathew Oye Oyerinmade, fondly known as MATO, stands out as the people’s choice, a unifying figure who embodies stability, inclusiveness, and the rallying point for members and aspirants alike. Unlike the divisive politics that often dominate elsewhere, MATO has built his reputation on inclusivity and service. His political journey is defined not by opportunism but by consistent presence and responsiveness. Across Okitipupa, Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo, Odigbo, Ilaje, Irele, and Ese Odo local government areas, APC stakeholders and grassroots members affirm their confidence in him. His appeal is not manufactured through slogans or fleeting gestures; it is the product of years of compassion, attentiveness, and genuine engagement with the people. Little wonder he is widely regarded as the aspirant who can consolidate APC members and ensure the party enters the bye-election united rather than fractured.
MATO’s resilience was evident in the last APC Ondo South Senatorial primary election, where he emerged runner-up. Despite being acknowledged as a strong contender, he chose loyalty over bitterness when the outcome did not favor him. Instead of withdrawing or fueling division, he remained committed to the party, continuing to support its members and structures. This decision underscores his character: a leader who values unity above personal ambition.In a political climate where many aspirants prioritize self-interest, MATO’s choice to remain steadfast with the APC reflects a rare quality of loyalty and discipline that resonates deeply with party members. He has shown that politics is not a game of musical chairs, but a calling to serve.
His humility and compassion have further strengthened his bond with the people. MATO is known for listening attentively, responding to needs, and offering support without discrimination. These qualities have built trust and reinforced his image as a servant-leader. For many, he represents a new kind of politics, one that prioritizes people over personal gain, service over scheming, and inclusivity over factionalism. His ability to connect with ordinary citizens and stakeholders alike makes him a rallying point not only among aspirants but also among the rank-and-file members who form the backbone of the APC in Ondo South. As the saying goes, “a tree is known by its fruits,” and MATO’s fruits of loyalty, compassion, and service speak louder than any campaign slogan.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has emphasized governance rooted in ease, accessibility, and stability. MATO’s leadership style dovetails perfectly with this vision. His ability to unify diverse interests within the APC makes him the natural partner to consolidate the governor’s agenda in Ondo South. Where others may complicate governance with factional battles and personal rivalries, MATO offers a pathway to harmony and progress. His politics of humility and compassion align seamlessly with the governor’s emphasis on ease of governance, ensuring that the people of Ondo South benefit from leadership that is both responsive and stabilizing. In short, he is the bridge between government and grassroots, the steady hand that can steer the ship through turbulent waters.
At a time like this, the APC in Ondo South needs a rallying point. MATO embodies that stabilizing force, loyal, compassionate, and committed to unity. His track record of service, his resilience in the face of political setbacks, and his unwavering commitment to inclusivity make him the aspirant best positioned to consolidate the party and strengthen its structures.
The bye-election is more than a contest for a senatorial seat; it is a test of the APC’s ability to overcome internal scheming and present a united front. Ondo South cannot afford to be weakened by factional battles at such a critical time. The people need a leader who embodies loyalty, humility, and compassion – qualities that MATO has consistently demonstrated. His candidacy represents not only the hope of unity within the APC but also the promise of consolidating governance in alignment with Governor Aiyedatiwa’s vision. In the face of subterfuge and scheming, Ondo South needs MATO, the steady compass pointing toward unity, progress, and quality representation.
