Ondo APC seeks elders’ support to resolve post-primary rancour

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has turned to senior figures within the party to mediate a dispute following contentious results from recent primary elections. On Tuesday, the state chapter of the APC convened with prominent elders, including former Deputy Governor and Nigerian Ambassador to Uganda, Chief Omolade Oluwateru, in an effort to quell internal tensions and restore unity ahead of the general elections. The move comes amid legal challenges from some aspirants who claim they were wrongly excluded from candidate lists submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The conflict erupted after several individuals declared themselves winners of the senatorial and House of Representatives primaries. These aspirants subsequently filed lawsuits against the APC, alleging that the party's National Working Committee had removed their names from the official candidate lists. This has sparked a rift within the party, prompting calls for intervention from influential members to prevent further escalation. To address these issues, the Ondo State APC established a reconciliation committee, which was officially launched on Tuesday. Leading the initiative is Mr. Biyi Poroye, the chairman of the Ondo State Oil-Producing Areas Development Commission. The formation of this committee reflects the party's commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and ensuring that internal conflicts do not undermine broader electoral goals. During a visit to Chief Oluwateru's residence, APC State Chairman Mr. Babatunde Kolawole emphasized the importance of leveraging the elder statesman's experience to foster unity. He acknowledged that such conflicts are common after primary elections but stressed the necessity of addressing grievances promptly to maintain party cohesion. Kolawole urged Oluwateru to play a pivotal role in reaching out to disgruntled members and facilitating reconciliation. Chief Oluwateru responded positively to the appeal, expressing satisfaction with the APC's proactive approach in establishing the reconciliation committee. Having previously served as Deputy Governor under the late former Governor Olusegun Agagu, Oluwateru reaffirmed his dedication to the party and its objectives. He pledged full support to the APC leadership, emphasizing his commitment to uniting all members to secure maximum votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the upcoming elections. Oluwateru highlighted his personal motivation for joining the APC, stating that he aims to contribute to the party's success and ensure Tinubu's re-election in 2027. He warned against squandering opportunities for political advancement, noting the potential consequences for the Yoruba community if such chances are missed. His remarks underscored the urgency of maintaining party unity and focusing on collective goals rather than individual grievances. The involvement of high-profile figures like Oluwateru signals a strategic shift within the APC to address internal divisions through mediation and collaboration. By engaging with seasoned leaders, the party hopes to reinforce its structure and prepare effectively for the general elections. This approach not only aims to resolve current disputes but also sets a precedent for managing future conflicts within the organization.