Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has appreciated the leadership role of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State in Ife Ehindero’s emergence as the House of Representatives member-elect for Akoko North-East/North-West Federal Constituency.

Mr Ehindero emerged the winner of the constituency’s by-election on Saturday.

In a statement on Monday, Mr Tunji-Ojo said the beauty of a democratic process unfolded when citizens can freely choose the most deserving representatives.

He appreciated Mr Tinubu for creating an environment for democracy to thrive in the state and Nigeria.

“I appreciate the unparalleled stewardship provided by the APC national leadership under Dr Abdullahi Ganduje and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

“I equally use this medium to recognise the dedication and zest of the Ondo State APC executive committee, under Mr Ade Adetimehin, for leading the party to yet another victory,” the minister added.

The minister said Mr Ehindero was a worthy successor poised to elevate the federal constituency to greater heights on the shoulders of his capable representation.

Mr Tunji-Ojo represented the constituency before his nomination for the ministerial position by Mr Tinubu.

“This victory is a show of continuity of effective and efficient representation, which our party has been offering since 2019.

“As a member of the APC family, the development of the federal constituency through quality representation remains the goal.

“I have no doubt that the people who trusted him with this important mandate will not be disappointed,” he said.

Mr Tunji-Ojo also appreciated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for upholding the tenets of democracy by remaining an unbiased umpire throughout the electoral process.

He also scored security agencies high for their efforts before, during and after the polls, which, he said, were conducted in a peaceful environment.

(NAN)