Samuel Olaniyan, Okitipupa

Strong woman of Ondo politics, Princess Oladunni Odu, a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) under late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has announced the collapse of her political structure to throw support behind Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, a gubernatorial aspirant.

The declaration was made during a meeting with her Coordinators and key party figures in the South Senatorial District in Okitipupa today (Mar 5)

Pledging her commitment to Ibrahim's candidacy, Odu directed her supporters under the "Iwajowa Political Group" to collaborate with Ibrahim's "Aseyori Group."

Having previously met with her supporters in the Central Senatorial District, Odu instructed them to actively work towards securing victory for Ibrahim in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary scheduled for April.

Chief Alaba Onayajo, one of the coordinators, stated, "The Iwajowa Political Group across Ondo State. under the leadership of Princess Oladunni Odu, has received the directive to mobilize for Ibrahim. Our primary objective is to ensure his success in the party's April primary, and we have already commenced our efforts."

The decision to align with Ibrahim was well-received during the Iwajowa leader caucus meeting, attended by notable figures including Hon (Prince) Banjo Ayelomi, Comrade Olusola Johnbosco, Chief Olasemojo S.O, Mrs. Gbojubola (woman leader Ondo East), Hon. Aduwo Sehindemi (State ex-officio), Hon. Ikuedowo Ayokunle (immediate past councilor ward 2 Okitipupa), High Chief Iwayemi Akinrinbola (leader), Hon Orire Japhet, Hon Arikawe Gbenga, Mr. Adesanoye Alaba (aka. chop alone), and five local government women leaders.

Princess Oladunni Odu, 71, a seasoned politician, had declared her intention to vie for the APC ticket in September 2023 for the November 16 governorship election. With a political career dating back to 1995, she has held various positions, including commissioner and Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), before making history as the first female SSG in Ondo State.

The three-time commissioner is a princess of Idepe-Okitipupa Kingdom.