Former Governor of Oyo state, Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala, has declared his intention to contest the state governorship election in 2019, under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He disclosed his intentions on Wednesday to his supporters who thronged his residence in Ibadan. He said his decision to contest again was influenced by the unending politicking in the state and his supporters who wanted him to re-contest.
The former Governor said: “When I had the privilege of occupying that office several years ago, I endeavoured to put smiles on the faces of the people of the pace-setter state within the available resources.
“I make bold to say emphatically and unequivocally that my laudable accomplishments in virtually all sectors speak volumes and have, without mincing words, had earned me the sobriquet of “OYATO GOVERNOR.
“Patriotic people of Oyo state for quite some time now, I have been inundated with telephone calls, text messages from well-meaning citizens and subjected to intense pressures by Destiny Group, corporate bodies, political associates and friends alike to stage a comeback to the governorship seat of our dear state.
“Consequently, with all sense of responsibility and with a view to consolidating and surpass the achievements recorded so far by Governor Abiola Ajimobi towards making Oyo State better, I Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala having communed with my Creator, the Almighty God, my immediate family and due consultations with the critical stakeholders, do solemnly offer myself to contest for the Governorship Seat of Oyo state come 2019. So help me God.”
He also had time to thank his supporters. He said: “Finally, I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to my numerous supporters across the 33 Local Government Areas of the state particularly the Destiny Group. I salute their courage and unwavering commitment to this project. I shall always be grateful to yo all. Let us therefore continue to move forward in our collective dreams to build a united, peaceful, politically stable, economically viable and better Oyo state”.
Alao-Akala was the Governor of Oyo State from 2007 to 2011.