Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Friday said the All Progressives Congress would adopt merit, loyalty and electoral viability as key parameters in selecting its candidates for the 2027 general elections.
The governor also warned aspirants against engaging in do-or-die politics, urging them to embrace discipline and respect party supremacy.
Aiyedatiwa spoke at the APC Central Senatorial District stakeholders’ meeting held at the Akure Township Hall, where he stressed the need for unity as political activities gather momentum ahead of the polls.
He explained that the process for choosing candidates would begin with the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms, followed by screening and appeals where necessary, before the adoption of either direct primaries or consensus arrangements.
According to him, consultations are already ongoing with aspirants across the state to foster consensus, noting that only one candidate would emerge per position.
The governor cautioned politicians against desperation, advising them to assess their chances realistically and avoid actions capable of destabilising the party.
He also warned against defection by aggrieved aspirants, urging those who may not secure tickets to remain loyal to the APC.
Drawing from personal experience, Aiyedatiwa recalled his unsuccessful senatorial bid in 2018, noting that his decision to remain in the party eventually paved the way for future opportunities.
He said, “Politics is not a do-or-die affair. If you are not chosen, remain committed to the party. Opportunities will come.”
The governor further disclosed that the party had expanded its stakeholder base to 60 leaders per local government area to promote inclusiveness, adding that engagements had been decentralised to senatorial districts to widen participation.
Reaffirming the party’s electoral target, Aiyedatiwa said the APC was working towards delivering one million votes for President Bola Tinubu in Ondo State in 2027.
He cited ongoing federal projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Ore-Akure road dualisation and the Ibadan-Ilesa-Akure-Benin highway as evidence of the Federal Government’s commitment to development in the state.
Also speaking, the APC State Chairman, Mr Babatunde Kolawole, reaffirmed the supremacy of the party and described the governor as its leader in the state.
Kolawole said the State Working Committee remained loyal to the governor, warning members against actions that could create division within the party.
In his remarks, the Central Senatorial Leader, Mr Kayode Famuyiwa, commended the governor’s performance, particularly in infrastructure and economic management, while calling for the establishment of a College of Agriculture and Food Technology in Idanre.
Other speakers, including stakeholders and party leaders, lauded the administration’s efforts in road construction, education and urban renewal, while pledging continued support for the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
The meeting was attended by top government officials, lawmakers and party stakeholders from across the senatorial district.
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