Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called on aspirants of the All Progressives Congress to embrace consensus and adhere to zoning arrangements as part of efforts to strengthen party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Abiodun made the appeal during a strategic meeting with House of Representatives and House of Assembly aspirants, alongside party leaders from the 20 local government areas of the state, held in Abeokuta.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, the governor assured aspirants that those who fail to secure party tickets or voluntarily step down under a consensus arrangement would be compensated.
He specifically pledged to refund the cost of nomination forms and consider affected aspirants for future political appointments.
While noting that many party members are qualified to contest, Abiodun emphasised that only one candidate can emerge per position, urging stakeholders to prioritise dialogue over divisive primaries.
“The zoning arrangement across local governments will serve as a guide to ensure fairness, equity and inclusiveness within the party,” he said, adding that grassroots leaders would play a key role in identifying credible candidates.
The governor dismissed concerns about imposition, insisting that decisions would be reached through broad consultations.
“I am not a dictator and have no intention of imposing candidates,” he stated.
Abiodun warned that rancorous primaries often breed resentment, financial strain and internal crises capable of weakening the party’s electoral chances.
According to him, adopting consensus would foster cohesion and enhance the party’s prospects in the forthcoming elections.
He further disclosed that some aspirants who previously stepped down or aligned with party directives had already been rewarded with government appointments, describing the approach as a strategy to retain experienced hands and discourage anti-party activities.
Drawing from his political journey, the governor urged patience among aspirants.
“I began contesting elections in 1993 and only became governor in 2019. If it does not happen now, it may happen later,” he said.
Party elders at the meeting, including Kola Ogunjobi, Olu Agemo, Adekunle Adesina, Gbenga Kaka and Iyabo Apampa, commended the initiative, describing it as a practical approach to managing internal competition and sustaining party loyalty.
