The Ondo State Government has declared its full support for the directive of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee mandating the use of direct primaries in constituencies where consensus candidates cannot be reached, ahead of the party’s forthcoming primary elections.
The government also urged party members across the state to ensure that the exercise is conducted peacefully and in strict adherence to internal democratic guidelines.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, the state government said it is fully aligned with the APC national leadership’s position on strengthening internal democracy through credible and transparent primaries.
The primaries, scheduled for May 15, 18 and 20, 2026, will produce candidates for the House of Representatives, the State House of Assembly and the Senate respectively.
According to the statement, the adoption of direct primaries where consensus fails remains a key step in deepening participation and ensuring fairness in the party’s candidate selection process.
The government noted that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is committed to maintaining peace, order and discipline throughout the electoral process, in line with the broader directive of President Bola Tinubu for unity and stability within the ruling party.
It added that Ondo State must continue to serve as a model of internal democracy and political maturity, especially as the APC prepares for future electoral contests, including the 2027 general elections.
The statement further described the primaries as an important test of the party’s unity, urging aspirants, delegates and supporters to shun violence, intimidation and divisive conduct before, during and after the exercises.
It also called on security agencies, electoral officials and party stakeholders to cooperate fully to ensure a transparent, credible and hitch-free process across the state.
The government stressed that unity, discipline and respect for party rules would strengthen the APC’s cohesion and improve its electoral fortunes in the years ahead.