In the political landscape of Ondo South Senatorial District, one name continues to ring a bell—Mathew Oyerinmade, fondly called Mato. Though he finished as runner-up in the All Progressives Congress (APC) Senatorial primary election of 2022, his journey has proven that every cloud has a silver lining.
Despite the winner enjoying the backing of the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, Mato’s enviable votes spoke volumes. His humility and compassion have made him the apple of the eye of many across the six local government areas, where his presence is felt like salt in the soup.
What truly sets Mato apart is his ability to turn lemons into lemonade. After the primary election loss, he did not throw in the towel; instead, he compensated his supporters generously, showing that he is a leader who puts his money where his mouth is. This rare gesture strengthened his bond with the people and proved that his politics is not just about winning but about keeping faith with the grassroots.
At the heart of his enduring influence lies the Mato Mandate Group, a formidable political structure that has become the backbone of his aspirations. With this group spread across the senatorial district, Mato has built a foundation that is as solid as a rock.
Today, Mato stands tall not merely as a runner-up but as a people’s champion. His story is a reminder that slow and steady wins the race, and that true leadership is measured not by titles but by trust. In Ondo South, his mandate endures because he has shown that actions speak louder than words.
