2027: Ondo APC Rift Widens as Party Chieftains Allegedly Back Opposition Candidates

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State finds itself embroiled in a widening rift, with allegations of discord among party chieftains and political appointees of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The controversy stems from the alleged opposition of certain party members to candidates endorsed by the National Working Committee (NWC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At the heart of the dispute is State APC Women Leader, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Iji-Ayeola, who allegedly refuses to support Governor Aiyedatiwa's preferred candidates, despite expectations that she should align with his choices. Sources within the party claim that the disciplinary action against her, including potential suspension, is a result of her continued allegiance to the NWC's endorsed candidates.

The tension escalated further with the allocation of an 18-seater Hiace bus to the Ondo APC Women Leader's office, which was instead given to the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Bosede Seun Osamaye. This decision, according to sources, was made due to Osamaye's closer ties to the Governor. Additionally, allegations have surfaced that APC's women mobilization efforts are being used to support National Assembly candidates outside the APC, further straining relations within the party.

These allegations come in the wake of the October 6 campaign rally for Hon. Tajudeen Adefisoye, a Social Democratic Party candidate, where several political appointees of Aiyedatiwa were seen in SDP colors, further fueling accusations of anti-party activities. Governor Aiyedatiwa, however, has denied sponsoring candidates outside the APC, asserting his commitment to the party and President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

He has previously declared his "zero tolerance for anti-party" activities and urged party members to support Tinubu and the party candidates in the 2027 elections.