As the April 25 APC governorship primary election approached, Paul Akintelure, a candidate for the upcoming Ondo State governorship, reportedly passed away.
Akintelure, a physician from Igbotako in the state’s Okitipupa Local Government Area, passed away early on Tuesday in Lagos after a brief illness.
In a statement released in Akure, APC state chairman Ade Adetimehin expressed his sorrow, calling the deceased a close friend with whom he had enjoyed a positive relationship for many years and adding that the news was unexpected.
Adetimehin stated that Akintelure was preparing to take part in the party’s April primary and was running for governor. He claimed that Akintelure was a highly civilized and dependable politician whose role in politics is to uplift the people and the nation.
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The party chairman continued, saying that the late political figure’s contributions to the growth and stability of the APC in the state would not be overlooked.
“Like other governorship aspirants, he was optimistic of victory, come April. He had many other plans, but death was never part of them.
“The State chapter condoles with the immediate family, Igbotako Community, his political associates, and the Nigerian Medical Association. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.
However, in a statement made available to journalists before his death through his spokesperson, Oladapo Akintelure, Akintelure expressed his concerns about the various threats, both direct and indirect, to his life. However, he expressed optimism that the alleged threats will lessen.
Akintelure said, “Initially, I hope these incidents would dissipate over time, yet regrettably, they have escalated to pose a serious threat to my life.”
“My determination 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.
“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.”
