As the 2027 senatorial election approaches, signs of growing support for Hon. Mathew Oye Oyerinmade, popularly known as MATO, are beginning to emerge across Ondo South.
Interestingly, some of those expressing interest in his ambition are members and leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), despite MATO being associated with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
From Odigbo to Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo, Irele, Okitipupa, Ilaje and Ese-Odo, some residents and political stakeholders are beginning to express their preference for MATO. Their position is that the choice of a representative should be based on individual conviction rather than party instructions. As some of them put it, “It is about our choice, not the choice of any political party.”
Some APC leaders and members who spoke on the development openly declared their preference for MATO over their party’s candidate, Isaac Kekemeke. Although they gave different reasons for their position, they shared a common interest in MATO’s senatorial ambition.
What makes the development particularly interesting is that the emerging support is not limited to one local government or a particular political circle. The fact that some APC members are openly expressing interest in a PDP candidate suggests that personal relationships, individual convictions and expectations about representation may also be influencing political discussions across Ondo South. As the political season unfolds, the extent of this support will become clearer.
The development is adding an interesting dimension to the 2027 senatorial contest. It suggests that party affiliation may not be the only factor influencing political choices in Ondo South. As the race gathers momentum, it remains to be seen how far this emerging support for MATO will spread and whether personal preference will influence voters’ decisions at the polls.
©️Mato Strategic Media Team