Ogun APC Primaries: Abiodun Moves to Avert Crisis With Consensus, Compensation Pledge

By Joseph Sunday

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has appealed to All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirants in the state to honor local government zoning arrangements and adopt consensus as the party gears up for upcoming elections.

Speaking at a strategic meeting in Abeokuta with House of Representatives and House of Assembly aspirants, along with party leaders from the 20 local government areas, Abiodun emphasized that unity must come before individual ambition.

“Many of you are qualified, but only one person can get each ticket,” the governor told attendees. He said zoning would guide candidate selection to ensure fairness, equity, and inclusion, with grassroots leaders best placed to vet and recommend aspirants.

Abiodun distanced himself from imposing candidates. “I am not a dictator and I have no intention of imposing candidates,” he said. “Decisions will come from consultations with stakeholders at the local level.”

He warned that bitter primary contests often drain finances, breed resentment, and fracture the party ahead of elections.

To reduce friction, he announced that aspirants who don’t clinch tickets will get their nomination form fees refunded. They’ll also be considered for appointments and other opportunities within the party.

According to the governor, several aspirants who previously stepped down in the party’s interest have already been given government roles — a move aimed at keeping experienced hands in the fold and discouraging anti-party activities.

Drawing on his own experience, Abiodun urged patience: “I started contesting in 1993 and only became governor in 2019. If you don’t get it today, you may get it tomorrow.”

He added that the incentives are meant to reward commitment, not buy loyalty.

Party elders including Kola Ogunjobi, Olu Agemo, Adekunle Adesina, Gbenga Kaka, and Iyabo Apampa backed the governor’s approach, calling it a practical way to manage competition and reward loyalty.