The Director-General of Grassroots Mobilisation for Tinubu (GMT) in Ondo State, Hon. Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, says the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the last two years is winning over not only party faithful but also former political rivals.
Speaking at an interactive session held at the GMT Secretariat in Akure with local government coordinators and group executives, Yusuf-Ogunleye revealed that GMT’s influence has expanded across the 18 local government areas of the state, with many non-APC members now aligning with Tinubu’s vision.
“We’re building a structure where no stakeholder feels left out. Our goal is total penetration into every ward. Every local government has now been mandated to appoint 12 officers for better coordination and outreach,” the DG declared.
As part of efforts to consolidate its leadership structure, Yusuf-Ogunleye announced the appointment of Chief (Mrs) Olamide Falana as the State Director of Women Affairs, and Comrade Paff Kolade Lawal as Director of Youths.
Falana, a former aide on gender to the Ondo Governor, promised to mobilise women across all sectors for Tinubu’s reelection. Lawal, currently the APC South-West Youth Leader, will lead youth mobilisation efforts under the GMT umbrella.
Yusuf-Ogunleye also praised the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo (BTO), describing him as a pillar of support to the group and a major influence in securing overwhelming votes for Tinubu in the last election.
He further commended the APC state chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for backing GMT’s operations in the state.
According to him, “Governor Aiyedatiwa is aware of what we’re doing. We are also working to harmonise efforts with other Tinubu support groups across the state.”
The meeting also featured remarks from GMT’s Legal Adviser, Hon. Akinwunmi Sowore, who hinted at upcoming strategic programmes aimed at amplifying Tinubu’s accomplishments.
The group’s Secretary, Mr. Rasheed Badmus, expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s growing popularity in Ondo, noting that citizens were already witnessing the dividends of his administration.
In a rare emotional moment, former Attorney General of Ondo State, Adekola Olawoye (SAN), hailed the formation of the GMT as possibly the final chance for his generation to witness a Yoruba presidency.
Other dignitaries at the event included Chief Albert Akintoye (SOT), former Commissioner for Agriculture Hon. Olayato Aribo (represented), Deaconess Lola Fagbemi (represented), Chief Bisi Ogbungbemi, and Hon. Paff Kolade Lawal.
Former Speaker Rt. Hon. Abayomi Akinruntan and Dr. (Mrs) Olubunmi Ademosu were represented, while several notable members sent apologies for their absence.
