Paul Akintelure, a prominent gubernatorial hopeful within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, has tragically passed away.
Prior to his untimely demise, Akintelure had voiced concerns over escalating threats to his safety.
Expressing optimism that the situation would improve over time, Akintelure sadly witnessed the intensification of these threats as the APC’s gubernatorial primary election, slated for April 25, drew near.
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In a poignant statement released by his spokesperson, Oladapo Akintelure, on Thursday, March 21, 2023, Akintelure lamented, “Initially, I hoped these incidents would diminish, yet regretfully, they have escalated to pose a serious threat to my life.”
Undeterred by the challenges he faced, Akintelure remained resolute, declaring, “The threats against me only strengthen my resolve to stand up for what is right and just. I will not allow fear to dictate our path forward.
Let us embrace peace, progress, and unity. Our collective strength lies in our ability to stand together as one, regardless of our differences.”
Recall that Akintelure had previously vied for political office as the deputy gubernatorial candidate of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), alongside Rotimi Akeredolu, who currently serves as the incumbent governor of Ondo State.
Despite his earlier setback in a senatorial election against the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, Akintelure remained committed to public service.
A medical doctor hailing from Igbotako, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, Akintelure’s passing comes amidst the burgeoning momentum of the Ondo gubernatorial election buildup, casting a somber shadow over the political landscape.