The family of the late Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu has shifted its support away from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in favor of Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, the candidate from the Social Democratic Party (SDP), for the upcoming Ondo governorship election on November 16, 2024. This endorsement was led by Oluwafemi Akeredolu, the late governor’s brother, who argued that voters should focus on a candidate’s qualities rather than party loyalty.
Oluwafemi criticized the current party-focused voting approach, advocating instead for voting based on individual merit. He expressed confidence in Akingboye’s potential to address issues within Ondo State, particularly emphasizing Akingboye's commitment to developing the Ondo seaport—a project that had been initiated but not fully realized under his brother’s administration.
Additionally, Oba Adewumi Babalola, representing the ASEI Human Rights group, echoed this endorsement, urging residents to support the SDP candidate. Babalola stated that he felt divinely guided to advocate for a leadership change in the state, further reinforcing the push for SDP leadership as a way to foster rapid development in Ondo.