Elders of the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State have warned Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa against imposing candidates ahead of the party’s primaries for the 2027 National and State Assembly elections.
The group, operating under the aegis of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Elders Forum, urged the governor to adopt a consultative approach in endorsing aspirants, stressing that inclusiveness would help avert internal discord within the party.
The convener of the forum, Ademola Ijabiyi, gave the advice on Wednesday during a medical outreach for elderly residents in Akure, sponsored by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Ijabiyi said while the elders were open to any mode of primary the party might adopt, it was important for key stakeholders to be carried along in the decision-making process.
“We are not an extension of the government or the governor. We are independent elders committed to the success of President Bola Tinubu,” he said.
He noted that several party elders had yet to be consulted on the emergence of candidates, despite reports that some aspirants had already engaged with the governor.
According to him, although it is expected that a governor would play a role in the selection of legislative candidates, broad consultations remain essential.
“A prudent leader will ensure that all relevant stakeholders are involved before decisions are taken,” he added.
The elders expressed optimism that the party’s primaries would be peaceful but indicated readiness to step in should disagreements arise.
Ijabiyi stated that the group had no preferred candidates, maintaining that its focus was to mobilise support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also expressed confidence that the APC would secure substantial votes in Ondo State, citing what he described as increasing support for the party and the President.
Political disagreements over candidate selection and primary processes have continued to pose challenges within parties, often resulting in internal divisions and legal disputes.
As preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum, stakeholders across parties have emphasised the need for transparent and inclusive primaries to strengthen unity and minimise post-election conflicts.
In Ondo State, consultations and alignments among political actors have intensified as aspirants position themselves for elective offices.
