Ondo 2027: Stakeholders appeals to APC leadership to discourage imposition
Agency Report
Ile-Oluji/Oke Igbo/Odigbo Federal Constituency Stakeholders in Ondo State, has appealed to the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership not to allow the imposition of candidates under the guise of consensus agreement.
The stakeholders made the appeal in a statement jointly signed by Mr Akinlaja Oluwaseun, Youth Leader, and Famakinwa Gbolahan on Thursday in Abuja.
The statement said the appeal had become necessary following alleged moves to impose a candidate on the constituency ahead of the 2027 election.
It noted that Mr Mathew Oyerinmade, popularly known as MATO, who previously pursued the Ondo South Senatorial ticket, was now being considered for the House of Representatives race after failing to secure momentum for the Senate bid.
It added that the House of Representatives seat should not be treated as a political compensation package.
It warned that any attempt to impose a candidate under the guise of consensus, could deepen divisions within the party and weaken its chances in the 2027 general election.
The statement said the constituency deserved a representative with genuine commitment and long-standing engagement with the people rather than last-minute political redeployment.
It warned against elite-driven arrangements, adding that democratic processes must be respected to preserve party unity and credibility.
“The APC must be careful not to create avoidable crises through imposition, consensus should come through broad consultation and acceptance by party members.
“It should not be through pressure from powerful interests, delegates and stakeholders must be allowed to make their choices freely, ”the statement said.
It noted that support had continued to grow for Ms Simisola Fajemirokun-Ajayi,an aspirant whose campaign many party faithful described as grassroots-driven and consultative.
According to the statement, Fajemirokun-Ajayi’s engagement with traditional rulers, youth groups, women leaders, ward executives and community influencers across the constituency has strengthened confidence in her candidacy.
It noted that her aspiration resonated strongly with women and young voters who saw her as a credible and accessible alternative with both competence and national exposure.
It urged delegates to resist external pressure and support candidates based on competence, accessibility, preparedness and commitment to the development of Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo/Odigbo Federal Constituency.
The APC House of Representatives primaries earlier fixed for Friday May 15, has been shifted to Saturday May 16.