THE Social Democratic Party, SDP, in Ondo State has announced the emergence of Princess Modupe Akindele-Martins as the running mate to the party candidate, Dr. Olu Agunloye.

The former State Women Leader of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, was annouced by SDP National Publicity Secretary Mr. Alfa Mohammed as Agunloye running mate over the weekend in Akure, the state capital.

*Dr. Olu Agunloye

Mohammed said her choice is a winning strategy for the party.

Mohammed explained further that various variables were considered before Akindele-Martins was picked out of many who signified interest for the ticket, so as to give the party an edge over other serious contenders in the election.

He added that out of the parties contesting for the election in the state, only SDP has heeded the clamour of the people of the state to have gender sensitive candidature.

The State Secretary, Oladele Ogunbameru, listed three parameters considered for choosing the running mate: religion, geography and gender, favour the choice of Akindele-Martins.

He said: “For the first time in the history of Ondo State in 40 years, the people are having the privilege of having a complete family lifestyle in politics and governance.”

Ogunbameru explained that Agunloye, if he is elected the next governor will govern the state in the firmness of a father, who will enjoy the warmth, love and motherly pieces of advice from the running mate, Erelu Akindele-Martins.

“This uncommon match would translate into responsible, responsive and good governance for the people of the state as obtainable in other states and political climes where such gender equality is being practiced”, he said.

She hails from the South Senatorial District of the state and Okitipupa council area of the state.

Speaking, Akindele Martins  said she has made wide consultation to translate into victory for the party adding that her “candidature is to give the women a place of prominence in politics.”

She promised to “talk to our youths in a motherly way and make our men to see why SDP is the way to go for quality representative democracy.  Enough is enough to women alienation in politics in this state, now is the time for Affirmative Action for all women.”