The race for Ondo State’s 12 legislative slots in the National Assembly ahead of the 2027 general elections has transformed into an intense power struggle within the All Progressives Congress, marked by internal disputes, factional realignments, and claims of sabotage. What started as disagreements over party primary nominations has evolved into a wider political battle involving Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and several disgruntled aspirants who missed out on the consensus arrangement.
The controversy has triggered legal battles, protests, and a mass migration of some prominent party members to rival platforms such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP). A striking manifestation of this internal rift was witnessed during the inauguration of the presidential campaign council in Akure, where three federal ministers and 11 out of the 12 APC National Assembly standard-bearers were conspicuously absent.
How did the ticket selection process trigger the crisis?
The root of the turmoil lies in the candidate selection procedure supervised by the state leadership. While the initial consensus model championed by Governor Aiyedatiwa aimed to forestall acrimony, it left numerous serving lawmakers and prominent stakeholders feeling marginalized. Subsequent interventions by the APC National Working Committee (NWC) led to a comprehensive review and alteration of the candidate lists, sparking protests from both sides of the divide.
For Aiyedatiwa, who assumed office following the death of former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, securing loyal allies in key legislative positions is crucial for consolidating his political authority. However, figures like Tunji-Ojo maintain formidable grassroots networks that continue to command significant influence across the state's political landscape, creating competing power blocs within the ruling party.
Are aggrieved aspirants working against the party?
The friction escalated when several defeated aspirants dumped the APC to secure tickets on opposition platforms. Mathew Oyerinmade emerged as the PDP candidate for Ondo South, Prince Idowu Mafimisebi secured the Ilaje/Ese-Odo ticket under the same party, and Tajudeen Adefisoye (Small Alhaji) pitched his tent with the SDP to run for the Idanre/Ifedore federal constituency.
These movements have raised concerns that these candidates may retain the backing of grassroots structures loyal to them within the ruling party. Allegations have also trailed some political appointees and party officials for allegedly associating with opposition candidates, prompting the state leadership to manage internal discipline carefully while denying any official sanction of anti-party activities.
What are the implications for the senatorial and house races?
The battlegrounds across the three senatorial districts and nine House of Representatives seats reflect these deep divisions. In Ondo Central, Adeniyi Adegbonmire carries the APC flag, while in Ondo North, incumbent Senator Olajide Ipinsagba faces a tough reelection bid amid mixed reviews of his first-term performance. Meanwhile, Isaac Kekemeke represents the ruling party in Ondo South, navigating challenges posed by formidable opposition figures and intra-party disaffection.
As opposition platforms like the ADC, PDP, and SDP seek to capitalize on these internal cracks, the APC faces a race against time to reconcile aggrieved stakeholders and present a unified front for both the presidential and legislative polls.