2027: I’ve not endorsed any aspirant, APC will explore consensus in Ondo- Aiyedatiwa

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has declared that he has not endorsed, approved or promised any elective ticket to any aspirant ahead of the 2027 elections, warning members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) against rumours capable of causing division within the party.

The governor made this known on Sunday while addressing APC leaders and members at the party’s stakeholders’ meeting held at The Dome, Akure, where party leaders also reaffirmed unity and intensified mobilisation for the ongoing electronic membership registration exercise.

Aiyedatiwa said it had become necessary to clarify his position in view of widespread insinuations ahead of party primaries. “I have not promised anyone a ticket. I have not said I will deny anyone a return ticket,” he said, stressing that candidate selection would involve all party leaders and may adopt a consensus arrangement.

He urged party members to remain disciplined and united, warning that actions capable of emboldening factions could undermine the party. The governor noted that the APC remained the most viable party in the state and called on members to work collectively to build Ondo State.

Emphasising the importance of the APC e-registration exercise, Aiyedatiwa described it as critical to the party’s future. He disclosed that Ondo State had recorded 128,770 registered members so far, ranking third in the South-West, while assuring that challenges related to National Identification Number (NIN) registration and logistics were being addressed.

The governor said the stakeholders’ meeting was part of his quarterly consultations with party leaders and thanked stakeholders, National Assembly members and party officials for their support, noting modest achievements recorded by his administration in infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, security and investment drive.

He revealed that several investment projects had reached the memorandum of understanding stage and would soon commence, while also highlighting the ongoing urban renewal programme in Akure aimed at transforming the state capital.

In their remarks, APC leaders and stakeholders reaffirmed confidence in the governor and the party. The National Vice Chairman (South-West), Dr Isaac Kekemeke, commended the governor’s unifying efforts and visible development in Akure, while the state APC caretaker chairman, Engr Ade Adetimehin, urged members to remain united to strengthen the party ahead of future elections.