One of the prominent governorship aspirants of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Paul Akintelure, is dead.
Akintelure died in the early hours of Tuesday, according to sources.
Although details of his death are still sketchy, Daily Trust reports one of his political aides as confirming the sad news.
“It’s true. My boss is dead. I’m on my way to see his family now,” the aide, who preferred to remain anonymous, told our reporter.
Recall that last Thursday, Akintelure raised the alarm over the threat to his life ahead of the November 16 governorship election.
The APC governorship aspirant, in a statement released by his spokesman, Oladapo Akintelure, revealed that there had been both direct and indirect attempts on his life.
The deceased said the recent unsetting event in the state compelled him to voice out and address a matter of grave concern with a heavy heart.
“Initially, I hoped these incidents would dissipate over time, yet regrettably, they have escalated to pose a serious threat to my life,” he said in the statement.
While noting that he would not be intimidated by the threat, he said he had reported the development to the security agents and engaged in necessary consultations with agencies entrusted with the safety of lives and properties.
“The threats against me only strengthen my resolve to stand up for what is right and just. I will not allow fear to dictate our path forward.
“Let us embrace peace, progress and unity. Our collective strength lies in our standing together, regardless of our differences,” Akintelure said.
The late Akintelure was running mate to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu during the 2012 election under the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).
He hails from Igbotako, Okitipupa Local Government Area of the state, and was also a medical practitioner.
