Fresh internal battles within the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State are raising concerns over party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections, as rival camps intensify the fight for tickets and influence.
Although the APC remains dominant in the state, boosted by defections from opposition parties, deep divisions reportedly persist among loyalists of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and supporters of late former governor Rotimi Akeredolu.
The tension is centred on the coming party primaries, where candidates for National Assembly and State Assembly seats will emerge. Many aspirants are said to fear that any process controlled by the governor’s camp may favour preferred loyalists.
Some serving lawmakers and other contenders have reportedly taken their lobbying to Abuja, seeking support from national party leaders and the Presidency in hopes of securing automatic tickets.
Sources within the party claim Governor Aiyedatiwa is also facing pressure from influential figures in Abuja to endorse candidates not originally on his list, especially in the Ondo South Senatorial District.
The growing tension nearly caused violence during a recent APC stakeholders’ meeting in Ore, where supporters of rival aspirants reportedly stormed the venue to resist any public endorsement by the governor.
Political observers warn that if unpopular candidates are imposed, the APC could face defections, anti-party activity, and possible losses in the general election.
Governor Aiyedatiwa has appealed for unity, urging members to remain loyal regardless of the outcome of the primaries, while party officials insist the selection process will be transparent and credible.
