On Wednesday, history was made as Dr. Funmi Waheed-Adekojo, a 40-year-old mechanical engineer, boldly stepped forward to pioneer her candidacy for the All Progressives Congress governorship ticket in Ondo State, becoming the first aspirant from the region to do so.
In a decisive move, Dr. Waheed-Adekojo secured the N10 million expression of interest form, marking her official entry into the gubernatorial race. While the ruling party has set the expression of interest form at N10 million and the nomination form at N40 million, female aspirants and individuals with disabilities are granted concessions, allowing them to acquire the expression of interest form at a reduced rate, with the nomination form being provided free of charge.
Undeterred by the formidable lineup of contenders, including incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, prominent business mogul and senator representing Ondo South district, Jimoh Ibrahim, and seasoned APC stalwart Olusola Oke, Dr. Waheed-Adekojo remains resolute in her pursuit of making history as the first female governor of the state.
Addressing reporters after obtaining her nomination form at the APC national secretariat, Dr. Waheed-Adekojo emphatically asserted her independence, clarifying that she was not a proxy for any political heavyweight or vested interest. With conviction in her voice, she declared, “I am not here to serve the interests of others. I am a grassroots woman, dedicated to empowering my community. My journey, fueled by hard work and dedication, has empowered 15,000 women and youths across Akoko and Ondo State through skill acquisition and entrepreneurship initiatives.”
As a mechanical engineer and Fellow of the Society of Engineers, Dr. Waheed-Adekojo radiates confidence in her ability to lead, emphasizing her commitment to represent not only herself but also women worldwide. She envisions her candidacy as a beacon of hope, showcasing the potential of women to effect positive change and address the pressing issues facing society.
In her own words, “This is more than a campaign; it’s a movement for women empowerment. As the first female governor of Ondo State, I will champion the cause of women everywhere, proving that we are indispensable agents of progress in our society.” With her unwavering determination and vision for a brighter future, Dr. Funmi Waheed-Adekojo stands poised to carve out a legacy that transcends gender and leaves an indelible mark on the political landscape of Ondo State.