In a bid to foster unity within the Ogun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Governor Dapo Abiodun has called on party aspirants to respect local government zoning arrangements and prioritize consensus-building ahead of the upcoming elections. Speaking at a strategic meeting held in Abeokuta with aspirants for the House of Representatives and House of Assembly, alongside local government leaders, the governor emphasized that while many members are qualified to run, only one candidate can secure each position. He urged them to avoid divisive contests and instead focus on dialogue and compromise to strengthen party cohesion.
Abiodun noted that zoning arrangements across the 20 local governments are designed to promote fairness, equity, and inclusion. He stressed that grassroots leaders are best equipped to assess aspirants and recommend suitable candidates. “I am not a dictator and I have no intention of imposing candidates,” he said, adding that all decisions will be made through consultations with local stakeholders. The governor also warned that contentious primaries often lead to bitterness, financial strain, and internal divisions that could weaken the party’s electoral prospects.
To ease tensions, Abiodun promised to refund nomination form fees to aspirants who do not secure party tickets. He also assured them of compensation and future opportunities within the party, revealing that several aspirants who stepped down or aligned with party decisions have already been considered for government appointments. This move, he explained, is aimed at retaining experienced members and discouraging anti-party activities.
Drawing from his own political journey, the governor urged aspirants to remain patient and committed. “I started contesting in 1993 and only became governor in 2019. If you don’t get it today, you may get it tomorrow,” he said. He maintained that the incentives are not meant to induce loyalty but to appreciate commitment and strengthen internal cohesion.
Party elders, including Kola Ogunjobi, Olu Agemo, Adekunle Adesina, Gbenga Kaka, and Iyabo Apampa, commended the initiative, describing it as a pragmatic approach to managing internal competition and rewarding loyalty. Observers suggest that this strategy underscores the APC’s effort in Ogun State to manage internal contestation through consultation, consensus, and strategic appointments as it seeks to maintain unity ahead of the elections.