Pressure Group Urges Maturity Among APC Participants Following Primaries in Ondo State
In the wake of the recent parliamentary primaries conducted by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, a faction within the party has urged disappointed candidates to approach grievances with maturity and utilize established party mechanisms for resolution. This call for restraint follows criticisms from some candidates who alleged bias and candidate imposition after the primaries.
The Ondo Progressive Family (OPF) expressed its views after the completion of the House of Representatives and Senate primaries, highlighting a number of negative reactions shared on social media by those who lost in the elections.
In a statement released in Akure, OPF’s state chairman, Prince Oluwole Ilawo, alongside secretary Mrs. Mabel Ogunleye, took issue with what they described as unfounded claims of candidate imposition directed at Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa and the state APC leadership. They noted that prior to the elections, many of the same candidates had commended the governor and party for their transparency and preparedness.
They argued, “These accusations against the governor and the Kolawole Babatunde-led Ondo APC are entirely unfounded. Right up to the eve of the primaries, these participants praised the party’s neutrality and preparedness. It is puzzling that they turned hostile the moment they did not secure victory.” They added that many candidates initially called for a consensus approach but then opted to purchase candidacy papers, leading to their electoral defeats.
OPF also pointed out that one candidate, facing local allegations of misconduct, should concentrate on resolving personal issues rather than attacking the party or its leadership. This advice came amidst claims of a moral crisis impacting the candidate’s electoral success.
The group highlighted that independent observers and commentators across the country acknowledged the orderly conduct of the APC primaries in Ondo. A notable endorsement came from former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Mr. Rt. My lord. Jumoke Akindele, who reported that polling took place in local schools without disrupting students’ learning. He remarked on the peace and transparency of the election process, reinforcing the commitment of the party to democratic ideals.
Akindele commended the efforts of party members and the professionalism exhibited by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies during the election. He particularly praised the leadership of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, Governor Ayedatiwa, and the State Executive Committee for organizing a credible primary that provided all aspirants with a fair chance.
He concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity within the party, urging members to maintain composure and not engage in divisive rhetoric. His final remarks reinforced the notion of APC as more than just a political party—but a significant movement capable of nurturing legitimate aspirations and collective ambitions for the betterment of the nation.
