Natasha Endorses Ekiti PDP Candidate, Mobilises Support

The political atmosphere in Ekiti State is intensifying as the June 20 governorship election approaches. At the centre of the latest development is Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, who has openly endorsed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Dr. Oluwole Oluyede.

Her endorsement came during the PDP campaign grand finale in Ado-Ekiti, where she described Oluyede as a leader with the competence, vision, and compassion to govern effectively.

A Senator’s Endorsement
Akpoti-Uduaghan told supporters that Oluyede understands the needs of ordinary citizens. She pointed to his engagement with market women, youths, civil servants, and community leaders as evidence of his grassroots connection. “Dr. Oluyede is not disconnected from the people. He listens to their cries and responds with practical solutions,” she said.

The senator emphasised that Oluyede’s leadership style is inclusive, promising equal opportunities for all communities. She described him as a bridge-builder capable of uniting diverse groups across ethnic and religious divides.

Grassroots Mobilisation
Beyond speeches, Akpoti-Uduaghan has spent days touring communities across Ekiti. She visited settlements in Ikole-Ekiti, Ilasa, and other areas with sizeable Ebira populations, encouraging residents to participate actively in the election.

Her grassroots efforts highlight the importance of mobilising minority communities and ensuring that every vote counts. “We have moved from settlement to settlement speaking to our people. We are encouraging them to support a candidate who prioritises development, inclusion, peace, and prosperity,” she explained.

Confidence in Ekiti Voters
The senator expressed confidence in Ekiti’s electorate, describing them as politically conscious and educated. She believes voters will assess candidates based on capacity and compassion rather than propaganda. “This election is about choosing progress, inclusion, and a better future for the state,” she said.

Her remarks reflect a broader narrative within the PDP campaign—that Oluyede represents a departure from politics of exclusion and embodies a vision of shared prosperity.

A Candidate’s Appeal
Oluyede’s accessibility and development agenda have been central to his campaign. Supporters argue that his grassroots connection sets him apart from other contestants. Natasha reinforced this view, urging voters to turn out in large numbers on election day.

“Dr. Oluyede is a tested and trusted leader with the interest of the people at heart. I urge all eligible voters to come out peacefully, exercise their democratic rights, and support a leader prepared to serve with dedication, competence, and integrity,” she said.

The Bigger Picture
The PDP campaign grand finale drew party leaders, youth groups, women organisations, and supporters from across Ekiti. Optimism was high as stakeholders expressed confidence in the party’s chances at the polls.

With political parties intensifying campaigns, Natasha’s endorsement adds momentum to Oluyede’s candidacy. It also underscores the role of influential figures in shaping voter perception and mobilising support across state lines.

As Ekiti heads to the polls, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s endorsement of Oluwole Oluyede is more than symbolic. It reflects a deliberate effort to rally grassroots support and frame the PDP candidate as a leader of inclusion and progress.

Her words and actions highlight the stakes of the election: a choice between continuity and change, exclusion and inclusion, rhetoric and service. For Oluyede, the backing of a senator with strong grassroots influence could prove decisive in a contest that promises to be fiercely fought.