A member of the House of Representatives representing Akure North/South Federal Constituency, Prince Abiodun Adesida, has explained that the failure of the consensus arrangement within the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State stemmed from the exclusion of aspirants in the selection process.
Adesida stated this amid indications that several aspirants have obtained nomination forms to contest various positions across the state, despite the party leadership’s earlier announcement of consensus candidates.
In the Akure North/South federal constituency, no fewer than six aspirants, including Adesida and Hon. Femi Fadairo, have picked forms, notwithstanding the endorsement of Hon. Wumi Edet as consensus candidate.
A similar development was observed across other constituencies, with multiple aspirants purchasing forms for both federal and state legislative seats in defiance of the consensus arrangement.
In Ondo North Senatorial District, Senator Jide Ipinsagba and Abdul Tunji Mohammed have obtained forms, while in Ondo South, aspirants such as Mayowa Akinfolarin, Agboola Ajayi, and Duerimini Isaacs Kekemeke have also entered the race.
Speaking during a presentation of his expression of interest and nomination forms by beneficiaries of his empowerment initiatives, Adesida maintained that consensus must be built on mutual agreement among aspirants rather than imposition by party leaders.
“Consensus works only when all parties involved agree. Once there is even a single dissenting voice, it ceases to be consensus,” he said.
He argued that the provision for consensus in the Electoral Act was not intended to allow political leaders to impose candidates, but to encourage voluntary agreement among contestants.
The lawmaker advocated direct primaries as a more credible method of candidate selection, noting that it allows broader participation of party members and reduces manipulation associated with delegate-based systems.
“Direct primaries give every member a voice, unlike indirect primaries where influence and money can determine outcomes,” he added.
Adesida expressed confidence in clinching the party’s ticket, citing his track record of constituency development during his previous terms in the National Assembly.
He also appreciated his supporters, particularly constituents who pooled resources to purchase his nomination forms, assuring them of continued quality representation if re-elected.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Seyi Ogundipe said their decision to back the lawmaker was based on his commitment to sustainable empowerment and good governance.
“We believe in leadership that creates lasting impact, not token gestures. That is why we came together to support him,” Ogundipe said.
