Power Struggles Threaten Ondo APC's Unity Ahead of 2027 Primaries

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State is grappling with significant internal divisions as the race towards the 2027 general elections intensifies. While official statements project unity, a fierce battle for control, influence, and crucial party tickets is unfolding, potentially dictating the state's political trajectory long before the polls.

The party's dominance in the state, bolstered by recent defections, has paradoxically fueled intense competition among aspirants. The prevailing belief that securing the APC ticket is a near-guarantee of victory in the general election has intensified the jostling for power. Key factions, including those aligned with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and loyalists of the late former governor Rotimi Akeredolu, are locked in a struggle for supremacy.

Adding to the complexity, the Independent National Electoral Commission's directive for parties to adopt either direct primaries or consensus methods for candidate selection has raised concerns. Aspirants outside the governor's camp fear that these modes might be manipulated to their disadvantage. Consequently, many, particularly incumbent legislators, are reportedly bypassing state leadership and taking their lobbying efforts directly to Abuja, seeking automatic tickets from the national party hierarchy. This move highlights a deep-seated distrust in the state-level primary process and a strategic attempt to secure their political futures amidst the internal turmoil.