The Ondo State chapter of the APC has reiterated that it will adopt a consensus arrangement in selecting its candidates, even as aspirant for Ondo North Senatorial District, Alex Oluremilekun Ajipe, intensified calls for the seat to return to Owo/Ose.
Speaking during an interaction with party stakeholders, the state chairman, Babatunde Kolawole, dismissed concerns over the mode of candidate selection, stressing that consensus remains a core tradition of the party.
“I’m not sure anybody is afraid of the two means of picking our candidates. The party is known for consensus mode of choosing candidates. We’ve used it at the national convention, for zonal officers, and even at the state level,” he said.
Kolawole emphasised that the APC leadership would guide the process and ultimately recommend candidates after consultations.
“In APC, we take decisions through a consensus arrangement; it is constitutional. Our duty is to guide and recommend the best candidate. Once a decision is taken, it is binding on all members,” he added.
He, however, clarified that endorsements by groups or local stakeholders do not translate to automatic candidacy.
“If I’m an aspirant, I can gather people to adopt me, but that does not make me the party’s candidate. There is a timetable, and the party will follow it. Endorsements only indicate preferences; the final decision rests with the leadership,” the chairman stated.
Earlier, Ajipe had urged the party leadership to ensure fairness, insisting that Owo/Ose deserves the senatorial seat after years of political imbalance.
“I have paid my dues in this party since 1988. Many of us have worked with the belief that one day it will be our turn,” he said.
He argued that equity demands a shift in the senatorial slot, noting that Akoko axis has held the position for about 20 years, including four consecutive terms, while Owo/Ose has had fewer opportunities.
“Owo/Ose people are agitating that for over 20 years, they have not produced a senator. Akoko has done it for four consecutive terms. It is only fair that the seat returns to Owo/Ose,” Ajipe stated.
The aspirant added that his position reflects the collective demand of his people, not personal ambition.
“I am delivering the message of Owo/Ose—we need the senate. Our people will not condone being sidelined,” he said.
While acknowledging internal concerns within the party, Ajipe noted that he had played a role in addressing grievances and maintaining unity.
“Some people felt marginalised; I called them, opened my doors, and everything was resolved. We gave voice to the voiceless during the last APC congress and helped hold the party together,” he said.
Despite the agitation, the APC chairman maintained that the party leadership, led by the governor, would consult widely before arriving at a final decision, urging aspirants to remain committed to party unity.