A group within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Progressive Nigerians In Diaspora (PND) has called on the party to pick the only Olufunmilayo Ayinke to deputise the party’s flag bearer in the forthcoming Guber election in Ondo state on November.
The party conducted its primary election on Saturday where the incumbent Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa defeated 15 other aspirants, including Funmi Ayinke who was one of the two only female aspirants in the contest.
Funmi Ayinke who polled 592 votes is an engineer by profession and also from the Northern Senatorial District of the state.
The group in a letter signed by its Chairman, Ambassador Ropo Bailey and addressed to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Abdullahi Ganduje, described Ayinke as a team player who is ready to serve the state.
The letter partly read;
“We are writing to respectfully request that the party consider providing compensation to the only female aspirant for the position of Deputy Governor. As a member of the party and a strong advocate for gender equality, we believe it is essential to recognize and support the contributions of women in our political process.
“The female aspirant in question has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, a deep understanding of the party’s values, and a commitment to serving the people. Despite facing significant challenges and biases, she has persevered and proven herself to be a formidable candidate. She is a team player our state needs now.
“Providing compensation to this aspirant would not only be a gesture of goodwill but also a demonstration of our party’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equality. It would also serve as a motivation for other women to participate in the political process, knowing that their efforts are valued and recognized.
“I urge you to consider this request and take the necessary steps to ensure that our party remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for all, regardless of gender.”