On Friday, Governor Honourable Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State made a declaration refuting claims questioning the authenticity of his West African Senior Certificate (WASCE), asserting its genuineness, authenticity, and verifiability,leadership reports.
The controversy arose when Gbenga Edema, a gubernatorial aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), lodged a petition with the party leadership, alleging that Aiyedatiwa’s WASCE certificate, which he presented for the April 20 primary election, did not originate from Ikosi High School in Lagos as claimed.
Following his screening at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja, Governor Aiyedatiwa addressed journalists, stating that the party had cleared him and dismissing the certificate issue as a ploy by rival aspirants who recognized him as the frontrunner.
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Aiyedatiwa clarified that he attended Ikosi High School after it absorbed students from other schools, including the one he previously attended, and graduated in 1982 and 1985, contrary to the allegations.
He emphasized the legitimacy of his certificate, inviting verification from relevant authorities to confirm the subjects he studied, the year of graduation, and the school attended.
Asserting his position as the leading aspirant, Aiyedatiwa urged other contenders to focus on their campaigns rather than engaging in distractions.
In response, Gbenga Edema clarified that he submitted an advisory to the APC leadership, expressing concerns about potential repercussions if Aiyedatiwa emerged as the party’s candidate, citing biblical inspiration for his actions.
Meanwhile, another gubernatorial aspirant, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, criticized Aiyedatiwa’s assertion that there was no vacancy in the Ondo State government, labeling it as a joke. Ibrahim highlighted Aiyedatiwa’s electoral track record, claiming the governor had never won an election.
Similarly, Olusola Oke, another contender, condemned Aiyedatiwa’s statement as undemocratic and reckless, emphasizing the democratic process and the need for a fair primary election.
The APC initiated the screening of 16 gubernatorial aspirants, including Governor Aiyedatiwa, at its National Secretariat. Among the aspirants are individuals like Funmilayo Mary Waheed Adekojo, Okunjimi Odimayo John, and Senator Jimoh Ibrahim Folorunsho, among others.
