Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo has asked residents to reject those seeking to buy their conscience with money during the state’s governorship election on November 16.

Mr Aiyedatiwa spoke while officially declaring his intention to contest the poll at the Gani Fawehinmi Arcade in Akure, the state capital. He said the people should also stop those who sought to “muscle” their way to govern the state.

“We must reject those who seek to buy our conscience with money. We must stop those who seek to govern this state by muscles,” the governor said.

The governor said politicians bribing their way into power was not what Ondo’s founding fathers stood for.

Mr Aiyedatiwa, who urged residents to vote for him, stated that the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu would be proud of him as a worthy successor who has always followed the path of development they jointly pursued.

He noted that his aspiration was in response to the people’s “popular yearning” to sustain the progress started by Mr Akeredolu.

However, Mr Aiyedatiwa explained that he currently holds the position after presenting his political credentials as a former representative of the state on the board of NDDC and former deputy governor.

He added, “I have a clear agenda to sustain Ondo State on the path of glory and development. Life must be more meaningful to our people.

“My mission would focus on key developmental issues to alleviate poverty, banish hunger and make Ondo State self-sustaining. My development agenda is to emplace a State Economic Empowerment Development Strategy (SEEDS).”

Earlier, Mr Aiyedatiwa received support and endorsement for his ambition from APC elders across the state’s 18 local government areas.

They said the governor should be allowed to continue his good work in the state.

Among the APC elders who endorsed Mr Aiyedatiwa are Sola Iji, former ambassador to Togo; Ajayi Boroface, former deputy Senate leader; Jamiu Ekungba; Segun Ojo, former Commissioner for Finance; Olamide Oladiji, the speaker of the State House of Assembly; and Abiola Makinde, member of the House of Representatives.