Ondo APC Elders Rally Members To Back NWC Candidate List

Senior members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State have called on party members to accept the National Working Committee’s (NWC) decision on candidates for the forthcoming governorship election.

The elders, speaking after a closed-door meeting in Akure, emphasised that unity and discipline remain critical for the APC to retain power in the state. They warned against internal disputes that could weaken the party’s chances in the 2026 polls.

According to the elders, the NWC’s role in screening and approving candidates is backed by the party’s constitution. They stressed that any attempt to challenge the committee’s authority would amount to undermining the party’s internal processes.

Chief Adewale Ogunleye, one of the conveners, explained that the elders’ intervention was necessary to prevent factional crises. He noted that past elections in Ondo had shown how internal divisions could cost the party dearly.

He urged aspirants and their supporters to put aside personal ambitions and work for collective victory. “The NWC has spoken. We must respect its decision if we want to remain a strong force in Ondo politics,” Ogunleye said.

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Another elder, Mrs. Funmilayo Akinrinlola, highlighted the importance of discipline in party politics. She argued that loyalty to the party’s structures was the only way to ensure stability and credibility. “No party can succeed if members disregard its leadership. We must show maturity and commitment,” she added.

The elders also appealed to younger members of the party to avoid inflammatory remarks on social media, warning that such actions could deepen divisions. They encouraged constructive engagement and dialogue within party organs.

Political analysts say the elders’ intervention reflects growing concern about tensions among APC aspirants. With several prominent figures eyeing the governorship ticket, the NWC’s decision is expected to generate mixed reactions.

Observers note that the APC leadership at the national level has been keen to avoid prolonged disputes in Ondo, given the state’s strategic importance. The NWC’s candidate list is seen as part of efforts to streamline the process and present a united front.

Civil society groups have welcomed the elders’ call, describing it as a step towards strengthening internal democracy. They urged political parties to prioritise consensus and fairness in candidate selection to reduce post-primary conflicts.

Meanwhile, some aspirants have expressed dissatisfaction with the NWC’s decision, insisting that the process lacked transparency. They vowed to continue consultations with stakeholders before deciding on their next steps.

Despite these concerns, the elders maintained that the party must move forward with the candidates endorsed by the NWC. They insisted that any grievances should be addressed through established party channels rather than public confrontation.

As Ondo prepares for the governorship election, the APC faces the challenge of balancing internal discipline with inclusiveness. The elders’ intervention underscores the delicate task of managing ambitions while safeguarding party unity.

For now, the message from the elders is clear: respect the NWC’s decision, close ranks, and focus on winning the election.