Elders of the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State have called on supporters of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to avoid actions that could deepen divisions within the party. The elders, under the aegis of the Ondo APC Elders Forum, made this appeal during their monthly meeting in Akure, the state capital. They acknowledged a perception of division within the APC in Ondo State, particularly regarding the relationship between Aiyedatiwa and Tunji-Ojo.
The Chairman of the forum, Demola Ijabiyi, stated that both leaders could operate separate structures while working towards the same objective of mobilising votes for President Bola Tinubu. Ijabiyi described Aiyedatiwa as the leader of the party in the state, responsible for uniting and mobilising members across the 18 local government areas. He also noted that Tunji-Ojo, as a member of the Federal Executive Council and a prominent political figure, had considerable support that could complement the governor's efforts.
Ijabiyi argued that the existence of different political structures did not necessarily mean the party was divided. He cited the separate campaign structures that operated during Tinubu's 2023 presidential campaign as an example. According to him, there was nothing inherently wrong with the governor leading one structure while Tunji-Ojo led another, provided both remained committed to Tinubu's re-election and the overall success of the APC.
However, Ijabiyi warned against unhealthy rivalry and the use of one political platform to undermine another. He appealed to supporters of the two leaders to stop making statements or engaging in conduct that could create the impression of open conflict between Aiyedatiwa and Tunji-Ojo. Ijabiyi emphasised that genuine support for one leader must not be expressed through hostility towards the other.
The APC chieftain stressed that the elders' forum would not take sides in any contest between the governor and the minister. He added that the forum's priority was cooperation among APC leaders and the re-election of Tinubu. Ijabiyi recognised and respected the important roles of both men and would continue to encourage cooperation among all APC leaders and tendencies in Ondo State.
The meeting took place on Wednesday, October 1, 2026, and was attended by various APC leaders and stakeholders in the state. The forum's monthly meeting is a regular event aimed at promoting unity and cooperation among party members. Ijabiyi's statement reflects the elders' commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful re-election campaign for Tinubu in 2027.
The Ondo APC Elders Forum's appeal is seen as a move to promote unity and cohesion within the party ahead of the 2027 general election. By urging supporters of Aiyedatiwa and Tunji-Ojo to avoid division, the elders aim to ensure that the party presents a united front in the election. The forum's efforts are expected to contribute to the overall success of the APC in Ondo State.
Key points
- The Ondo APC Elders Forum has urged supporters of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to avoid actions that could deepen divisions within the party.
- The forum's chairman, Demola Ijabiyi, stated that both leaders could operate separate structures while working towards the same objective of mobilising votes for President Bola Tinubu.
- The elders' appeal is seen as a move to promote unity and cohesion within the party ahead of the 2027 general election.
