The attempt by Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to impose a consensus-based candidate selection for legislative seats faced immediate resistance. Conflict arose after the APC national headquarters rejected the governor’s proposed list of candidates for the State and National Assembly. Ignoring signals from Abuja, the governor persisted with his agenda, but his chosen aspirants ultimately failed to secure their positions.
Aiyedatiwa had previously instructed stakeholders across all 18 local government areas to support his preferred choices, signaling that he intended to replace most sitting federal lawmakers. This approach clashed with the national leadership’s preference for retaining incumbents. Aggrieved lawmakers sought support from Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to challenge these results through the party’s Appeal Committee, alleging widespread manipulation by state officials.
Following a review, the APC National Working Committee (NWC) voided the initial results in a major overhaul. In a June 29, 2026, letter to INEC, the NWC announced revised candidates, citing compliance with the Electoral Act. This intervention affected two out of three senatorial seats and six out of nine House of Representatives positions. Notably, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire replaced Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti in Ondo Central, while Senator Olajide Ipinsagba returned to the ballot in Ondo North.
The adjustments in the House of Representatives included the replacement of candidates such as Akingboye Leke by Donald K. Ojogo in the Ilaje/Ese Odo constituency and Rasaq Obe by Festus Olarewaju Akingbaso in Idanre/Ifedore. Despite these changes, four candidates kept their tickets, including Isaacs Kekemeke and Omowunmi Olatunji.
Protests erupted in Akure following the NWC’s decision, with allegations that state government officials orchestrated the unrest. Reports indicate the Presidency was dissatisfied with the conduct of some officials, leading to investigations. Commissioner for Information Idowu Ajanaku denied that government commissioners organized the demonstrations. Meanwhile, the PBAT Mandate Elders Forum supported the NWC, stating that the move proved the APC follows its own constitutional rules rather than personal agendas.
