Ogun APC primary: Ipokia LG disowns Hunye, backs Yayi for 2027 governorship

Ogun State's ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership in Ipokia Local Government Area has formally distanced itself from former governorship contender Abayomi Hunye, declaring his recent political moves and public remarks do not align with the party's stance. This decision came after Hunye, who previously sought the 2023 gubernatorial election, recently announced a running mate and reiterated his candidacy for the upcoming 2027 governorship election. At a press conference held at the APC secretariat in Ipokia, APC Chairman in the area, Hon. Agbetokun Wasiu Onikoyo, made it clear that Hunye's actions and statements do not reflect the party's official position. Onikun emphasized that Hunye’s recent activities and public pronouncements fail to represent the consensus of APC members in Ipokia. He stated, “We state categorically that Mr Hunye’s recent utterances and political activities do not represent the official position of the APC in Ipokia Local Government, nor do they reflect the collective views, aspirations and decisions of our party members.” The chairman further confirmed the APC's continued backing of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, known as Yayi, as their preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election. Onikun accused Hunye of a long-standing pattern of behavior, alleging that since 2011, he has obtained nomination forms during election cycles and then engaged in negotiations that led to political appointments rather than competing fairly in the party's internal processes. He cited examples of Hunye's past roles, including Chairman of the Ogun State Motor Vehicle Administration and Compliance Agency, Commissioner, and Special Adviser. However, Onikun clarified that the party's stance is not aimed at denying individuals the opportunity to pursue political careers, but rather to ensure these pursuits adhere to the APC's constitutional guidelines and democratic frameworks. He urged Hunye to address allegations surrounding his identity, including claims that he was known as “Semako Korotoe” during his tenure in Lagos State public service. Onikun stressed that any legal name change should be supported by documented evidence and that such matters should be resolved through verified records rather than conjecture. Additionally, he underscored that no individual, regardless of their political stature, is above the APC's constitution, emphasizing that party discipline follows established procedures starting at the Ward level and moving up through the Local Government, State, and National levels. Hon. Bisi Oyedele, representing the Ipokia/Idiroko State Constituency in the Ogun State House of Assembly, elaborated on how Hunye’s suspension was initiated and approved. He noted that according to the APC constitution, disciplinary measures leading to suspension must start at the Ward level before being reviewed at the Local Government, State, and potentially National levels. Oyedele explained that Hunye’s case originated at the Ward level and was escalated to the Local Government Executive Committee, which convened to deliberate on the matter. The APC leadership in Ipokia continues to stress the importance of adhering to internal party protocols and maintaining the integrity of its electoral processes. As the 2027 governorship election approaches, the situation underscores the complexities of navigating political aspirations within structured party dynamics. The next steps will likely involve further discussions within the party to solidify positions and prepare for the upcoming electoral cycle.