Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has urged All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirants in the state to respect local‑government zoning arrangements and seek consensus as the party prepares for upcoming elections.
Speaking at a meeting in Abeokuta attended by House of Representatives and State Assembly aspirants and party officials from all 20 local government areas, Abiodun said the APC must unify around a single candidate for each elective position. He emphasized that, although many members are qualified, “only one candidate can emerge for each position,” and that internal disputes weaken the party’s electoral prospects.
The governor highlighted zoning as a framework for fairness, equity and inclusion within the party. He argued that grassroots leaders are best placed to evaluate aspirants and recommend suitable candidates. “I am not a dictator and I have no intention of imposing candidates,” Abiodun remarked, adding that decisions will be taken after consultations with local stakeholders.
Abiodun warned that contentious primaries often generate bitterness, financial strain and divisions that could jeopardise the APC’s chances at the polls. To mitigate tension, he pledged to refund nomination‑form fees to aspirants who fail to secure tickets and to consider them for future appointments. He disclosed that several aspirants who stepped down or accepted party decisions have already been earmarked for government posts, describing the approach as a means to retain experienced members and discourage anti‑party activity.
Drawing on his own political career, Abiodun encouraged patience and perseverance. “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, stressing that any incentives are intended to acknowledge commitment rather than buy loyalty.
Party elders, including Kola Ogunjobi, Olu Agemo, Adekunle Adesina, Gbenga Kaka and Iyabo Apampa, praised the initiative, labeling it a pragmatic way to manage internal competition and reward dedication.
The meeting underscores the APC’s strategy in Ogun State to handle intra‑party contests through consultation, consensus and strategic appointments, aiming to preserve unity ahead of the forthcoming elections.
