By David Akinmola
Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has moved to calm rising political tension within the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that he has not endorsed any aspirant for elective office ahead of the 2027 general elections and warning against rumours capable of fracturing the party.
The governor spoke on Sunday at a stakeholders’ meeting of the APC in Akure, where party leaders also intensified mobilisation for the ongoing electronic membership registration exercise and reaffirmed their commitment to internal cohesion.
Aiyedatiwa said the clarification became necessary amid growing speculation over alleged endorsements as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of party primaries. He stressed that no individual had been promised tickets for the National Assembly, State Assembly or any other elective position.
According to him, candidate selection within the APC would follow established party processes, with leaders at all levels participating and consensus arrangements expected to play a key role.
The governor cautioned party members against spreading assumptions and political falsehoods, noting that such actions could embolden factions and weaken the party’s collective strength. He urged discipline and loyalty, describing the APC as the only viable political platform in the state.
Aiyedatiwa also used the meeting to rally support for the party’s e-registration drive, describing it as critical to strengthening the APC’s structure ahead of future elections. He disclosed that Ondo State had so far recorded over 128,000 registered members, ranking among the top states in the South-West, but said greater mobilisation was needed before the registration deadline.
He acknowledged challenges linked to National Identification Number (NIN) requirements and logistics, adding that efforts were underway with relevant agencies to address the bottlenecks and expand access across wards and local governments.
Beyond party matters, the governor highlighted achievements recorded by his administration in infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare and security, noting that several investment projects had reached advanced stages and would soon commence.
He also pointed to the ongoing urban renewal programme in Akure, saying it was designed to reposition the state capital and improve residents’ quality of life.
APC leaders at the meeting expressed confidence in the governor’s leadership and pledged stronger mobilisation ahead of future elections. National Vice Chairman of the APC (South-West), Dr Isaac Kekemeke, praised the administration’s efforts at party reconciliation and described the urban transformation of Akure as visible and commendable.
Similarly, the party’s caretaker chairman in the state, Engr Ade Adetimehin, urged members to remain united, warning that internal rivalry could undermine the APC’s electoral fortunes.
Lawmakers, former office holders and party chieftains who spoke at the meeting commended the governor’s performance and appealed for sustained development across urban and rural communities.
The meeting was attended by the deputy governor, members of the state executive council, federal and state lawmakers, party executives and other stakeholders from across the three senatorial districts.
