Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State faced a major setback in his efforts to consolidate control over the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s legislative slate for the 2027 elections. His attempt to enforce a consensus-based selection of candidates for both state and national assembly positions encountered resistance from the party’s national leadership, leading to a reversal of his choices by the APC National Working Committee (NWC). This development has sparked tensions within the party, with some members accusing the state government of manipulating the electoral process. The conflict began weeks prior to the primary elections, when Aiyedatiwa publicly committed to a consensus approach, aiming to secure the support of local stakeholders across the three senatorial districts. He held meetings with ward councillors and emphasized the need for cooperation among party members. Aiyedatiwa also indicated that only two current National Assembly members would retain their seats, while most state lawmakers would remain due to their loyalty. However, this strategy clashed with the national leadership's preference for the return of several sitting representatives. The dispute escalated when the NWC intervened, overturning the results of the primaries. Acting on petitions filed by disgruntled lawmakers, the committee issued a revised list of candidates, significantly altering the composition of the party’s legislative slate. In a letter dated June 29, 2026, the NWC, represented by Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda and Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, confirmed that the changes adhered to electoral laws and INEC guidelines. The revisions impacted two of the three senatorial seats and six of nine House of Representatives seats, with notable replacements in key constituencies. Among the changes, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti was replaced in the Ondo Central Senatorial District by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire (SAN). Similarly, in Ondo North, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye was removed, and Senator Olajide Ipinsagba was reinstated. The Ondo South Senatorial District saw no change, with Hon. Isaacs Kekemeke retaining his position. In the House of Representatives, numerous candidates were substituted, including Hon. Donald K. Ojogo replacing Mr. Akingboye Leke in the Ilaje/Ese Odo constituency and Hon. Festus Olarewaju Akingbaso taking over from Hon. Rasaq Obe in the Idanre/Ifedore constituency. Despite these alterations, four candidates managed to keep their tickets, including Hon. Isaacs Kemeke, Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero, Hon. Adegboyega Adefarati, and Hon. Omowunmi Olatunji. These selections reflect the NWC’s commitment to a broader representation of interests within the party. Meanwhile, some members of the APC have raised concerns about the implications of these developments. Legal practitioner and party chieftain Chief Olusola Oke has assured that the internal strife will not hinder President Bola Tinubu’s chances of winning the 2027 presidential election. Oke argues that the current disputes are a common occurrence in a democratic process and should not overshadow the party’s overall strength and Tinubu’s popularity in the state. He has criticized statements made by some aspirants, such as Razaq Obe, who warned that unresolved conflicts could jeopardize the party’s prospects in both the National Assembly and presidential elections. Obe, a former commissioner, has expressed fears that the internal discord might lead to a loss of support for Tinubu in the upcoming polls. However, Oke maintains that such warnings are unfounded and that the party’s unity and Tinubu’s appeal remain intact. He has also pointed out that Obe lacks the authority to represent the collective stance of all APC members in Ondo State. The ongoing legal battles, with some aspirants approaching the Federal High Court to challenge the NWC’s decisions, underscore the complexity of the situation. The involvement of legal firms, such as Remi Olatubora (SAN), indicates that the dispute is likely to persist until a resolution is reached through judicial channels. As the party moves forward, the focus remains on reconciling internal differences and ensuring that the 2027 elections proceed smoothly. With the APC’s dominance in Ondo State and Tinubu’s strong base of support, the outlook for the presidential race remains positive, despite the current turmoil. The path ahead will depend on how effectively the party can navigate these challenges and maintain its cohesion.
6 reports
Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 754 days agoThe Ondo State branch of the All Progressives Congress (APC) attempted to implement a consensus-based selection process for legislative candidates ahead of the 2026 elections, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. However, this effort faced resistance from within the party, particularly from incumbent lawmakers who felt sidelined. The national secretariat rejected the governor’s preferred list for both state and national assembly seats, prompting the governor’s camp to proceed despite the rejection. At the end of the primaries, none of Aiyedatiwa’s chosen candidates advanced, leading to a power struggle. The National Working Committee (NWC) intervened, overturning the results and issuing a revised list of candidates. This reshuffling affected two of three senatorial seats and six of nine House of Representatives seats, with new names selected based on the appeal committee’s findings.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the internal conflict within the APC over candidate selection, detailing both the governor’s strategy and the subsequent intervention by the national leadership. It does not overtly favor one side over the other, focusing on procedural outcomes rather than褒
Why factuality (90): This article provides detailed accounts of the APC's internal conflict, including the governor's attempt at consensus, the rejection by the NWC, and the subsequent legal challenges. It offers clear chronology and quotes from multiple sources, aligning closely with the broader narrative of the crisis
Why objectivity (75): While the article presents facts objectively, there is a slight emphasis on the failure of Aiyedatiwa's strategy, which could be interpreted as subtly favoring the national leadership's stance. The language used to describe the governor's efforts as 'backfired' may carry a minor editorial tilt.
The PunchIndependentConservativeFactual 88Objective 703 days agoThe All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticized former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for his public criticism of President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms. Obi accused Tinubu's administration of leading Nigeria in the wrong direction and called for a 'policy reset' to address economic and governance issues. In response, APC National Vice Chairman Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu defended Tinubu's reforms, arguing they laid a solid foundation for economic recovery and emphasized the need for policy continuity rather than abrupt changes. He highlighted reforms such as removing fuel subsidies, adjusting exchange rates, and fiscal restructuring as essential steps toward sustainable growth. Arodiogbu condemned Obi's calls for a 'new foundation' as counterproductive during ongoing economic adjustments and urged Nigerians to support the continuation of current reforms. He also criticized Obi for focusing on national challenges without offering viable solutions.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the debate around the necessity of policy continuity, aligning with the APC's defense of President Tinubu's economic reforms. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining current policies and criticizes Obi's call for a 'reset' as disruptive and lacking in practical alternatives. A
Why factuality (88): The article accurately reflects the APC's response to Obi's criticisms of Tinubu's economic policies, quoting Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu and detailing the specific reforms mentioned. This aligns with the cross-source consensus that APC supports continuity in economic policies. The content is factual and
Why objectivity (70): The tone is confrontational towards Obi, suggesting his calls for change are counterproductive. While the facts are accurate, the language used implies a judgment against Obi's position, reducing objectivity.
The PunchIndependentConservativeFactual 88Objective 657 days ago Ondo APC crisis temporary, Tinubu will win landslide — OkeChief Olusola Oke, a legal practitioner and leader within Nigeria's All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, claims the internal disputes within the party will be resolved before the 2027 general election. These disputes arose after some candidates challenged the APC's decision to remove their names from the list of candidates submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission. One of the affected candidates, Razak Obe, warned that this conflict could impact President Bola Tinubu's chances in the upcoming presidential election. However, Oke insists that Tinubu will achieve a significant victory in Ondo State due to the party's strong support base there. He criticized Obe's comments as damaging to the party's reputation and undermining efforts to secure a win for Tinubu.
Bias read (Conservative): The article presents a perspective that supports President Bola Tinubu and the APC, emphasizing their strength in Ondo State and dismissing concerns about potential challenges to Tinubu's re-election. It frames the internal party conflicts as minor issues that won't affect the broader electoral odds
Why factuality (88): The article accurately reflects the ongoing crisis within the APC, mentioning the legal challenges and the concerns raised by Razaq Obe regarding Tinubu's prospects. It includes direct quotes from Olusola Oke and aligns with the cross-source consensus on the potential impact of the crisis. However,
Why objectivity (65): The article has a more subjective tone, particularly in the quote where Oke dismisses Obe's concerns as 'uttering statements which may put the party in disrepute.' This suggests a clear preference for Oke's viewpoint over Obe's, indicating a lack of neutrality.
The PunchIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 78yesterday Kano delegation meets SGF, seeks release of ₦5bn market relief fundA delegation representing Kano State, including business leaders and government officials, met with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to request the immediate release of a ₦5 billion relief fund allocated by the federal government for victims of the Singer Market fire disaster. The delegation emphasized the need for swift disbursement to aid affected traders and restore commercial activity in the area. The funds were approved by President Bola Tinubu, and Vice President Kashim Shettima previously confirmed the allocation during a ceremony welcoming Kano Governor Abba Yusuf into the All Progressives Congress. The Progressive Governors' Forum also pledged an additional ₦3 billion to support those impacted by the fire.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of a meeting between Kano State representatives and a federal official regarding the release of a relief fund. It includes direct quotes from both the delegation and the SGF, providing balanced perspectives without overtly favoring any political side. There is
Why factuality (85): The article reports on a meeting between Kano delegation and SGF based on a statement from the Governor’s spokesperson. It provides details about the requested ₦5 billion relief fund for Singer Market fire victims, aligning with cross-source consensus that such funds were promised. The information i
Why objectivity (78): The article presents the meeting as a positive development, highlighting the approval of the fund by President Tinubu and the delegation’s appeal for faster disbursement. While factual, it uses language like 'prompt release' and 'much-needed relief' which may imply urgency and importance, potentiall
Premium Times NigeriaIndependentConservativeFactual 85Objective 707 days agoA senior member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olusola Oke, asserts that President Bola Tinubu will secure a convincing victory in the 2027 Nigerian presidential election, despite ongoing internal conflicts within the party. These conflicts stem from disputes over the selection of National Assembly candidates, where the National Working Committee (NWC) overruled the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, leading to protests among loyalists. Razaq Obe, a former state commissioner, has warned that unresolved tensions could harm the party's prospects in both the National Assembly and presidential elections. However, Oke dismisses these concerns, arguing that internal disagreements do not equate to party weakness and that Obe lacks authority to represent all APC leaders. Oke emphasizes party unity and downplays the potential impact of factionalism on Tinubu's electoral chances.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the internal party conflict as a minor issue that will not hinder Tinubu's re-election bid, emphasizing the strength and unity of the APC. It highlights Oke's confidence in Tinubu's victory while dismissing concerns raised by Obe, suggesting a more optimistic view of the ruling党's
Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports the internal conflict within the APC in Ondo State, citing specific actions by the National Working Committee (NWC) and the concerns raised by party chieftains like Olusola Oke and Razaq Obe. It aligns with the cross-source consensus that the party crisis may impact Ti
Why objectivity (70): The tone leans slightly towards supporting Tinubu's candidacy, using phrases like 'will not affect the votes' and emphasizing the potential negative impact on Tinubu if the crisis isn't resolved. This suggests a subtle bias toward Tinubu's re-election.
The PunchIndependentCenter6 hr. ago Kano leaders lobby SGF over N5bn Singer Market reliefKano business leaders and government officials met with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, to request the immediate release of a N5 billion relief fund promised by the federal government for victims of the Singer Market fire disaster. The delegation emphasized the need for swift action to aid affected traders and restore commercial activity. The funds were approved by President Bola Tinubu, and the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, confirmed the allocation during a ceremony welcoming Governor Abba Yusuf into the All Progressives Congress. The Progressive Governors' Forum also pledged an additional N3 billion in support.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of a meeting between Kano officials and the SGF regarding a relief fund. It includes quotes from both the delegation and the SGF, providing balanced perspectives without overtly favoring any side. There is no evident loaded language or one-sided sourcing.
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