The national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, and national secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, on Thursday led a campaign in Ado Ekiti, urging residents to vote for the party’s governorship candidate, Dare Bejide, in Saturday’s election.

Mr Aregbesola campaigned along Ado-Ikere Road, urging residents to vote for Mr Bejide to drive sustainable development in the state.

He also urged voters to elect a government that would prioritise their welfare and aspirations, saying Ekiti deserved a new direction.

Mr Aregbesola said it was time for Nigerians to reject poor governance and support leaders capable of addressing the country’s socio-economic challenges.

He said, “Our country has been abducted. Beyond the ransoms being paid to bandits and criminals, Nigerians are also paying dearly for bad governance. The resources of this country are enormous, yet the people continue to suffer.

“It is time for citizens to take responsibility for changing the direction of the nation. The only way to achieve that is through the ballot box. Nigerians must reject leaders who have failed them and embrace a platform committed to good governance and accountability.”

The former Osun governor urged Ekiti residents to vote massively for the ADC flagbearer, describing Mr Bejide as a competent and experienced politician capable of transforming the state.

Also speaking at the rally, Mr Mark said Ekiti deserved a governor who would represent the people’s interests and deliver on campaign promises.

He said, “After so many years, the people of Ekiti deserve the governor of their dreams. They deserve a government that will listen to them, serve them and work for their progress.

“I urge you to come out en masse on Saturday and vote for your candidate. I am confident that with your support and your votes, we shall return here for the inauguration of a new government elected by the people.”

Mr Bejide thanked party supporters for their commitment throughout the campaign and assured them that, if elected, his administration would focus on development, job creation, infrastructure and improved welfare.

He also pledged to run an inclusive government that would harness the state’s human and natural resources for sustainable development.

Mr Bejide urged voters to turn out in large numbers and protect their votes.