Ondo APC Elders Call on Party Faithful to Respect NWC's Candidate Selection Decision

The All Progressives Congress elders in Ondo State have denounced the recent protests sparked by the release of the party's candidates list, urging disgruntled members to accept the decision made by the party's leadership.

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In a show of discontent, a group of women from the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State took to the streets of Akure, the state capital, on Monday to protest the list of candidates released by the National Working Committee of the party.

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The protesters claimed that the names on the list did not emerge victorious in the last House of Representatives primary election, which was held last month.

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Demola Ijabiyi, Chairman of the APC Elders Forum in the state, addressed journalists in Akure on Wednesday, stating that the elders support the national secretariat's decision on the candidates list.

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According to Ijabiyi, the National Working Committee's decision reaffirms that the APC is a party governed by its constitution, established rules, and transparent processes, rather than personal preferences or sectional interests.

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Ijabiyi noted that the primaries conducted in Ondo State last month were not free and fair, describing them as mere imposition, and stated that there was no need for protests over the National Working Committee's decision on the candidates list.

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Ijabiyi emphasized that the elders have consistently cautioned against candidate imposition within the party in Ondo State, stressing that the wishes of party members and the integrity of the nomination process must never be sacrificed for personal ambition or political expediency.

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The APC Elders Forum chairman acknowledged the disappointment and frustration of those whose hopes were built on primary election results that were neither authentic nor sustainable, urging them to accept the decision of the national leadership with dignity and without further agitation.

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Ijabiyi pointed out that no amount of public protest can convert defeat into victory where no legitimate mandate was won in the first place, and that the decisions of the party's leadership are binding on all members.

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The APC Elders Forum chairman warned that continued protests and acts of defiance can only be seen as indiscipline and may put those involved at odds with the party's core values and constitutional principles.

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Ijabiyi called on all concerned to respect the party's decision, submit to its authority, and channel their energies towards strengthening the APC and ensuring its continued success, as the party remains the final authority on party nominations.

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The development, according to Ijabiyi, sends a clear message that no individual, regardless of position, is greater than the party.

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The APC Elders Forum remains committed to mobilizing support across Ondo State for the reelection of President Bola Tinubu and other APC candidates in the forthcoming general election in 2027.

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Ijabiyi also stated that the group will continue to promote reconciliation among party members and defend the democratic ideals upon which the APC was founded.

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The chairman urged all leaders, elected officials, aspirants, and stakeholders to close ranks, eschew divisive politics, and work together in the overall interest of the party and the people of Ondo State.