Ondo State APC chieftain Olusola Oke has dismissed claims that internal disputes arising from the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries could cost President Bola Tinubu and the party electoral victory in Ondo State, insisting the president will record a landslide win despite the grievances.
In a right of reply, Oke responds to comments made during an interview on ARISE News on Wednesday by former Ondo State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Razaq Obe, who warned that dissatisfaction over the conduct and outcome of the APC primaries could weaken the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Replying to the claims during an appearance on Thursday, Oke acknowledged that the conduct of the primaries had created disaffection within the party but maintained that the situation would not affect Tinubu’s electoral fortunes in the state.
“There is no doubt that the handling of the primary has caused disaffection,” he said.
“I empathise with Obe for his sense of denial and defeated expectation.”
Oke said the issues arising from the primaries were not unique to Ondo State or the APC, adding that party leaders had a responsibility to resolve internal disagreements.
“The point is when there is a problem in a party, the responsibility of sorting it out rests on the leaders.”
He rejected Obe’s suggestion that the disputes could undermine the APC’s chances in the state.
“I do not share the view of Razaq Obe that because of the crisis arising from the primaries alone, the APC, or in particular President Tinubu’s election in Ondo State, I do not share it.”
Expressing confidence in the president’s chances, Oke said, “I say without fear of evil that the president will win landslide in Ondo State because his aspiration goes beyond individual aspirations.”
He attributed his confidence to what he described as the performance of the Tinubu administration and the APC’s political strength in Ondo State.
“For us in Ondo State, for the first time in our political history, we have three ministers that are holding very key positions and who are also delivering on their mandates.”
“We have a government in place that is also grassrooted. A combination of these factors will certainly give President Tinubu victory in Ondo State.”
While admitting that more work was needed to strengthen internal democracy within political parties, Oke maintained that the disagreements following the APC primaries were manageable.
“Crisis arising from the conduct of the primaries is monumental, no doubt, but it’s not beyond redress.”
“I believe very soon the temperature will go down. Leaders will come round to talk to individuals.”
Oke, who also contested the APC governorship primary, disclosed that he personally felt aggrieved by the process but said party members should prioritise the collective interest of the APC.
“I felt cheated at the last primaries, but the interest of the party must be paramount in the mind of all members.”
He added that despite the disagreements, APC leaders in the state would ensure the party remained united ahead of future elections.
“We will not allow such isolated incidents to rub off on the fortune of the party.”
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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