The emergence of Hon. Matthew Oye Oyerinmade, popularly known as MATO, as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Ondo South has generated renewed political interest across the senatorial district, with his supporters describing his candidacy as a credible and compelling choice for the people.
MATO is being presented as a philanthropist whose record of community service, integrity and grassroots engagement extends beyond partisan politics. His supporters point to his longstanding commitment to improving the lives of residents across Ondo State, particularly through initiatives targeted at youths, market men and women, students, the elderly and persons living with disabilities.
They argue that MATO’s interventions have not been dependent on holding a political appointment or elective office, describing his philanthropy as evidence of a personal commitment to community development.
One of the initiatives frequently cited by his supporters was his intervention during a period of fuel scarcity in Nigeria, when he provided free fuel trucks to support Okada riders across Ondo State. According to his supporters, the gesture was not restricted to Ondo South, but extended to people across the state.
His supporters also highlight his activities during his time in the All Progressives Congress (APC), where, they say, he renovated and equipped the six APC party secretariats across Ondo South, in addition to supporting the party’s state office.
Beyond political structures, MATO has also been associated with various empowerment programmes aimed at assisting vulnerable and less-privileged members of society. His supporters say these initiatives have provided opportunities and relief for numerous beneficiaries, including young people, traders and physically challenged persons.
With his emergence as the PDP candidate, attention has now shifted to what his candidacy could mean for the political contest in Ondo South. Supporters believe his grassroots presence, accessibility and experience have given him an understanding of the challenges confronting communities across the senatorial district.
They contend that representation should be assessed not merely through party affiliation, but also through character, competence, commitment, accessibility and a demonstrable record of service.
The growing campaign around MATO is consequently built on the conviction among his supporters that he can provide effective representation, unite diverse interests within Ondo South and give the district a stronger voice in government.
As political activities intensify, voters are expected to scrutinise the records, programmes and capacity of all candidates seeking their mandate. For MATO’s supporters, however, the choice is already clear: they believe his record of philanthropy, grassroots engagement and commitment to public service makes him a strong and credible alternative for Ondo South.
For Ondo South, the message is unequivocal: with MATO on the PDP platform, Ondo South has a candidate they believe is prepared to serve, represent and deliver
Comrade Fisayo Adesoji writes from Ileoluji in Ondo South
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