Paul Akintelure, a leading contender for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship in Ondo State, has passed away.
Akintelure had expressed fears about both direct and indirect threats to his life prior to his tragic death.
He had expressed optimism that things would get better eventually, but regrettably, as the April 25 APC governorship primary election drew near, things got worse.
Akintelure’s warning about a life threat:
“Initially, I hope these incidents would dissipate over time, but regrettably, they have escalated to pose a serious threat to my life,” Akintelure stated in a statement issued on Thursday, March 21, 2023, through his spokesperson, Oladapo Akintelure.
“My will to defend what is just and moral is only strengthened by the threats made against me. I refuse to let fear determine how we move forward.
Let’s embrace harmony, advancement, and peace. Our ability to unite as a group in spite of our differences is what gives us collective strength.
Background in politics:
Recall Along with Rotimi Akeredolu, the current governor of Ondo State, Akintelure campaigned for deputy governorship on the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) ticket against Olusegun Mimiko, the then-leader of the Labour Party, who emerged victorious.
He had previously run against the Peoples Democratic Party nominee for the Senate seat, but he had lost.
He was from Igbotako, Okitipupa Local Government Area, Ondo State, and was a doctor.
This event took place as the excitement around the Ondo gubernatorial race grew stronger.