By Emmanuel Okogba

A youth group, the Renewed Hope Youth Alliance, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to support the emergence of Princess Catherine Oladunni Odu as the consensus candidate for the Ondo South Senatorial District seat.

The group said Odu possesses the experience, leadership qualities and integrity required to represent the district in the Senate.

The appeal was contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday by the Ondo State Coordinator of the group, Comrade Olopade Samuel.

Samuel also urged the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, to support the move, saying it would strengthen ongoing advocacy for increased women’s representation in governance.

He said the endorsement of Odu would further encourage women to actively participate in leadership positions across the country.

The group equally called on Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, to back the aspiration.

According to Samuel, Odu has consistently demonstrated commitment to public service and grassroots development.

He said, “We call upon all the good people of Ondo South Senatorial District, especially our party faithful, to rally behind Princess Catherine Oladunni Odu.

“Your support is crucial in ensuring that we have a representative who embodies the values of integrity, accountability and progress.”

The group described Odu as a seasoned administrator with an impressive public service record spanning education, women’s affairs and governance.

It noted that she previously served as Commissioner for Education, Commissioner for Women Affairs, Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board, Federal Commissioner at the Public Complaints Commission and the first female Secretary to the Ondo State Government.

According to the alliance, Odu championed reforms that promoted institutional development, improved access to education and strengthened women’s participation in governance.

The group added that her leadership style had remained rooted in professionalism, discipline and accountability.

It further stated that Odu remained a strong advocate for women’s leadership and youth mentorship even after leaving public office.

The alliance said her wealth of experience made her the ideal candidate to complete the tenure of Senator Jimoh Ibrahim following his transition to an ambassadorial role at the United Nations.