The Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected allegations of internal divisions, asserting that reconciliation efforts are progressing positively. The party is aiming to gather support to achieve at least one million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the presidential election scheduled for January 16, 2027.
At a recent press conference held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Akure, Mr. Babatunde Kolawole, the state chairman, emphasized that reports of rivalry among party leaders are unfounded. He stated that all members continue to be part of the same political family, especially as Ondo State will not have a governorship election in 2027 and Tinubu is the sole presidential candidate for the party.
Kolawole expressed confidence that the unity within the party would lead to electoral success for Tinubu and other APC candidates. He acknowledged the contributions of key party figures, including Tinubu and Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, in bolstering party strength.
Victor Olabimtan, the Director General of the APC Presidential Campaign in Ondo State, noted that the reconciliation committee formed after the party’s congress has actively engaged various party constituents. He mentioned visits to Abuja and consultations with party leaders in Lagos and beyond as part of this effort. The participation of previously estranged leaders at a recent campaign rally was highlighted as evidence of progress.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye, announced plans to mobilize women across the state to secure substantial electoral support for Tinubu, linking this anticipated backing to federal interventions aimed at enhancing women’s economic empowerment and education.
Dr. Osamaye cited recent government initiatives, including the distribution of professional kits to healthcare workers, agribusiness programs, and educational loans, as instrumental in improving women’s prospects and reducing dependency on patronage. She reiterated a commitment to foster unity within the party and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among women.
Additionally, APC chieftain Chief Olusola Oke underscored that Ondo State remains peaceful and free from political violence, countering reports of political thuggery that have affected other regions. He commended media vigilance in portraying the party’s situation accurately and insisted that no opposition party members have faced violence in the state.