APC PRIMARIES CRISIS DEEPENS AS FACTIONAL BATTLES ROCK ONDO AHEAD OF 2027

APC PRIMARIES CRISIS DEEPENS AS FACTIONAL BATTLES ROCK ONDO AHEAD OF 2027

The build-up to the 2027 general elections is already exposing deep divisions within the Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as internal power struggles threaten the party’s cohesion ahead of its primaries.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed April 23 to May 30, 2026, for political parties to conduct primaries nationwide. In compliance with the Electoral Act 2026, parties are expected to adopt either the direct primary or consensus method in selecting candidates for elective offices.

In Ondo State, preparations have intensified, with aspirants jostling for tickets across the National Assembly and State Assembly levels. The APC, which remains the dominant political force in the state following a wave of defections from opposition parties, is witnessing heightened competition among its members.

Growing Factional Tensions

Despite public assurances of unity, the party is grappling with internal divisions driven by competing interests among key political figures. Loyalists of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, supporters of Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and allies of the late former governor Rotimi Akeredolu are all seeking influence over candidate selection.

Although the factions appear aligned in their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid, tensions at the state level continue to escalate.

Some aspirants, particularly lawmakers, have reportedly shifted their focus to Abuja, lobbying the APC national leadership and the Presidency for endorsement amid concerns that the state-controlled process may not favour them.

Battle for Tickets Intensifies

The struggle for party tickets has been further complicated by alleged external influence. Sources within the party indicate that certain aspirants are being backed by powerful interests outside the state, sometimes contrary to the preferences of the governor.

This situation has increased pressure on Governor Aiyedatiwa, who is said to be balancing between accommodating external demands and supporting his preferred candidates, especially in the Ondo South Senatorial District.

The contest for the district has become particularly sensitive following the diplomatic appointment of former senator Jimoh Ibrahim, leaving the seat vacant pending a by-election announcement by INEC.

Tensions Spill into Public Gatherings

Recent party meetings have reflected the growing unease. At a stakeholders’ gathering in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area, tensions nearly escalated into violence as supporters of different aspirants resisted any attempt to endorse candidates.

The situation was only calmed after the governor refrained from publicly backing any aspirant.

Risk of Post-Primary Crisis

Political observers warn that unresolved grievances could trigger defections or anti-party activities after the primaries, potentially weakening the APC’s chances in the general election.

Some aggrieved members are reportedly considering alternative political platforms if the candidate selection process is perceived as unfair or driven by personal interests rather than popularity.

Analysts note that a similar internal crisis contributed to electoral setbacks for the party in previous election cycles, raising concerns about a possible repeat.

Calls for Inclusiveness and Transparency

Party officials, however, have dismissed fears of a looming crisis. The APC’s Director of Media and Publicity in Ondo State, Steve Otaloro, stated that the party has mechanisms in place to ensure a credible and transparent primary process.

He emphasised that whichever method is adopted must be fair and inclusive to gain acceptance among stakeholders.

Meanwhile, political groups within the party have cautioned against imposing unpopular candidates, stressing that popularity and grassroots support should guide the selection process.

Experts Urge Caution

Political analyst Muyiwa Aloba advised the party leadership to adopt an inclusive approach in managing internal disagreements, warning that failure to do so could undermine electoral success.

He noted that internal conflicts are common in political parties but stressed that effective conflict resolution remains key to maintaining unity.

Governor Appeals for Unity

Governor Aiyedatiwa has called on party members to remain loyal and prioritise collective interests over personal ambitions. He urged aspirants to accept the outcomes of the primaries in good faith and continue supporting the party.

According to him, political success often requires patience, adding that not all aspirations can be realised at once.

Outlook

As the primaries approach, the APC in Ondo State faces a critical test of its internal cohesion. The ability of party leaders to manage competing interests and foster reconciliation may ultimately determine its strength heading into the 2027 general elections.