Prominent members of the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State have dismissed the reconciliation panel set up by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Operating as the PBAT Elders Mandate Forum, these leaders argue that the governor should instead pursue direct discussions with disgruntled members to settle internal party disputes. Speaking in Akure, Chairman Demola Ijabiyi stated that the committee lacks the necessary standing to resolve deep-seated divisions.
The group claims the governor has not done enough to build support for President Bola Tinubu’s future re-election. Ijabiyi pointed to the selection process for National Assembly candidates as a primary source of friction, noting that the unilateral exclusion of 11 out of 12 candidates without proper consultation caused significant resentment. He emphasized that since the governor initiated these issues, he bears the responsibility to resolve them personally.
Furthermore, the forum criticized the governor’s inconsistent efforts in grassroots mobilization. They suggested he should follow advice from former Governor Olusegun Mimiko regarding the reconciliation of the state’s three ministers. While noting tensions between the governor and Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the elders commended the minister’s contributions to party growth. The forum maintains that prioritizing the APC’s success and President Tinubu’s victory is paramount, and they remain open to cooperation if the governor chooses to engage them directly.
