Dr Olusola Ayandele, an Ibarapa-born business man, has declared interest to govern Oyo State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress(APC)
He declared his interest on Thursday at the APC secretariat in Ibadan.
The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that Ayandele, a Director at Integrated Energy Distribution and Marketing Limited, was received by APC executives in the state led by the Secretary, Mr Mojeed Olaoya.
NAN also reports that the carnival-like declaration also featured a visit to the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji, in his palace and Mrs Tola Oyediran, the eldest daughter of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo at the Ibadan residence of the late sage.
Ayandele listed poverty alleviation, free education and free healthcare as some of the programmes he would implement if elected.
“Some of the programmes we want to do include poverty alleviation, free education up to secondary school level as well as free healthcare to the vulnerable, children and infants.
“We will focus on agriculture which will be the basis for our industrialisation.
“ We will encourage regional integration as well as encourage our civil service to drive all government initiatives,” he said.
The governorship aspirant also pledged to ensure that civil servants in the state receive their salaries on the 25th of every month if elected.
Ayandele stated that the security network built by Gov. Abiola Ajimobi would be deepened and strengthened.
He commended the governor for laying a solid foundation for good governance, promising to build upon it.
The aspirant also commended the party leaders, assuring them that he would adhere strictly to the manifesto of the APC.
Ayandele expressed optimism that the ongoing reconciliation in the party would be fruitful, adding that there was no other party the aggrieved persons could find fulfilment as true progressives.
“The teeth and tongue will fight but they will not leave the mouth. The true progressive will find their way back.
“We will appeal to them and things will be fine. There has been a lot of efforts and people are discussing,” he said.
Olaoya, in his response, assured the aspirant that the party would ensure a level playing ground for all.
“Ayandele is a known and loyal party man. He is exercising his right as party member,” he said.
Among those who accompanied Ayandele to the party secretariat were Chief Ademola Ojo, a former ALGON Chairman in Oyo State, and other party supporters.(NAN)