Hours before the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary in Ondo State, indications emerged on Friday that support was growing for Simisola Fajemirokun-Ajayi, an aspirant for the Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo/Odigbo Federal Constituency. Political observers had initially considered her the underdog in the three-way contest, but her grassroots mobilisation efforts have shifted the dynamics.
Fajemirokun-Ajayi intensified her campaign with strategic visits to Okeigbo, Ile-Oluji, and Odigbo, where she engaged traditional rulers, community leaders, women groups, youths, and party coordinators. In Okeigbo, the traditional ruler reportedly praised her courage in contesting in a male-dominated political environment and acknowledged her contributions to community development.
In Ile-Oluji, supporters accompanied the APC aspirant on a peace walk from the residence of her grandfather, Chief Henry Fajemirokun, through Ward 1 to the community market. Residents expressed their enthusiasm by singing and dancing as they welcomed her campaign team. “She is not a stranger here; she is one of us,” said Akinbinu Busayo, a resident, during the rally.
The campaign train later moved to Odigbo, where supporters turned out in large numbers despite reports of tension surrounding the primary process. Observers noted that the increasing support for Fajemirokun-Ajayi reflects growing interest among youths and women in the constituency ahead of the party primary scheduled for Saturday.
Stakeholders in Ile-Oluji have firmly rejected claims questioning Fajemirokun-Ajayi's indigene status, asserting that she is a true daughter of the land. They emphasised her deep roots in the community, citing her grandfather's legacy and her active involvement in local development projects. The rejection of these allegations has further solidified her support base, positioning her as a strong contender in the upcoming primary.
