The Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has defended its internal candidate selection process following fresh allegations of imposition.
The party maintained that its use of the consensus option is rooted in its constitution and not a tool for coercion.
It also dismissed claims linking Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to any plan to impose candidates on the party structure.
State Chairman, Hon. Kolawole Babatunde, speaking through the party’s Secretary, Mr. Alex Kalejaye, said the APC constitution clearly recognises consensus as a legitimate method for selecting candidates during primary elections.
He explained that the party adopts the consensus approach through broad consultations among leaders at different levels before agreeing on candidates.
“The governor has never informed us of any plan to impose candidates on the state,” he said.
“The party constitution recognises consensus as one of the modes of electing candidates during primaries. It involves consultations across localities before settling for candidates.
“Consensus is not the same as imposition. It promotes individuals with proven records of performance, loyalty, popularity and credibility.”
Babatunde added that the process, which involves extensive engagement among stakeholders, should not be misinterpreted as imposition but rather as a strategy to produce credible candidates.
His remarks followed concerns raised by some party stakeholders over the weekend, accusing the leadership of imposing candidates.
Meanwhile, Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his stance on candidate selection, stressing that the priority should be producing candidates capable of winning elections while preserving party unity.
Speaking during stakeholders’ meetings across the three senatorial districts of Ondo State, he said he is not committed to any single method of candidate selection, noting that both consensus and direct primaries remain valid options depending on what best promotes unity.
He expressed support for consensus where it reflects genuine agreement among stakeholders but cautioned against any process that could be perceived as imposed by a few interests.
According to him, consensus must be inclusive and broadly acceptable rather than driven by narrow considerations.
He added that where consensus fails, direct primaries offer a credible alternative, allowing party members to freely choose candidates and reducing post-primary disputes.
The governor outlined three key criteria for candidate selection: winnability, loyalty and consistency.
He said aspirants must demonstrate strong electoral appeal and grassroots support, emphasising that the party cannot afford weak candidates.
On loyalty, he described it as commitment to the party’s leadership and ideals, while consistency, he noted, reflects political credibility and stability over time.
Aiyedatiwa stressed that whichever method is adopted must not produce controversial or weak candidates that could undermine the party’s chances.
He reaffirmed that unity remains critical, adding that both consensus and direct primaries must ultimately strengthen the APC ahead of future elections.