By Juliet Umeh

The Ondo Professionals Association in Lagos has declared former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Jumoke Akindele, as the most qualified person to succeed Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, who was recently appointed an ambassador-designate by President Bola Tinubu.

The group said the All Progressives Congress, APC, would be taking a “giant, progressive step” by supporting Akindele—described as one of the most outstanding women in Ondo politics—to replace Ibrahim as the representative of Ondo South.

In a statement jointly signed by its President, Dr. Wale Ajayi, and Secretary, Ms. Ronke Ojetimi, the association urged Senator Ibrahim, a non-career ambassador-designate, to nominate Akindele as his successor.

“As indigenes of Ondo State, we are committed to the growth and political direction of our state and the South West at large,” the group said.

It described Akindele as “a remarkable figure in Ondo State’s political history, a woman of exceptional capability, eloquence, and unwavering intellect.”

“As the first female Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Akindele broke historic barriers with competence and an uncommon grasp of governance. Her tenure was marked by excellence.
She commanded issues with clarity, navigated political complexities with strategic brilliance, and carried the dignity of the Assembly with poise and purpose.

“For Akindele, leadership was never about occupying a seat but elevating the institution entrusted to her,” the group added.

According to the association, records show she remains the best Speaker the state has produced—“a trailblazer whose impact continues to inspire women in politics and young people across the state.”

It noted that the South West currently has no female senator except in Lagos, saying Ondo must seize the opportunity “to set the pace again.”

“APC has always prided itself on giving women opportunities in politics. There is no better time than now. Akindele outshined her male counterparts and has proven she can do even more,” it said.

The group commended President Tinubu for his strides so far and urged him to support more women for leadership roles.

It argued that as Ibrahim’s successor is being considered, Ikale—and more specifically Okitipupa—holds the right of first refusal, adding that Akindele, an indigene of Okitipupa, is the “natural and perfect choice.”

“Success in politics often hinges on patience and calculation. It is not merely about taking opportunities but timing actions wisely. Ondo must continue to inspire women to take up leadership roles, and this is another opportunity for both the state and the APC to do so,” the group said.