Tension has escalated within the Ondo State All Progressives Congress (APC) as rumors surface that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is initiating discussions with the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC). These allegations emerged after photos circulated showing the governor with Senator Ayo Akinyelure, the ADC’s candidate for the Ondo Central Senatorial seat, at the Government House Chapel in Akure.
The speculation intensified after Governor Aiyedatiwa attended Akinyelure’s 70th birthday party. Party insiders suggest these meetings indicate a potential drift away from the APC, particularly following the defeat of the governor’s preferred candidate, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, in the senatorial primaries against incumbent Senator Niyi Adegbonmire. One APC official claimed the governor is actively supporting individuals who are challenging party decisions in court or pursuing candidacy through rival platforms.
Addressing these claims, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, dismissed the allegations as entirely false and malicious. He clarified that the Government House Chapel is a venue accessible to all citizens regardless of their political ties. He noted that Senator Akinyelure visited the chapel to worship and express gratitude for the governor’s previous birthday greetings.
Adeniyan emphasized that Governor Aiyedatiwa remains dedicated to the APC and is working to ensure the party’s success in upcoming elections. He urged supporters to ignore these claims, attributing them to individuals attempting to incite division within the ranks.
