Uncertainty looms over the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State as the April APC primaries approach.
With no clear guidance from President Bola Tinubu, who wields significant influence over the selection of the next governor, candidates vying for the position are left in a state of confusion.
The unexpected passing of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, the party’s stalwart in the state, has further complicated matters.
Akeredolu’s demise has thrown potential successors into disarray, depriving them of his crucial endorsement. Recent events in the state have disrupted political calculations ahead of the impending APC primaries.
Despite assertions by some aspirants of being endorsed by the late governor, responses from Akeredolu’s aides have refuted these claims as unfounded.
The absence of Akeredolu, a pivotal figure in the state’s APC, has shifted attention to Abuja for guidance. The party in Ondo State now appears to be drifting following Akeredolu’s passing.
More than eleven aspirants have shown interest in the APC primaries. However, none have taken steps to acquire nomination forms due to the prevailing uncertainty.
Attempts by aspirants to directly engage President Tinubu have been fruitless, leading them to explore alternative avenues, including reaching out to his family members such as his wife, Remi Tinubu, his daughter, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, and political associates.
Efforts to sway the National Working Committee of the party have encountered resistance as officials await directives from the President concerning the Ondo governorship election.
While six aspirants are considered genuine contenders in the upcoming primaries, others are perceived as either seeking political relevance or bargaining for future considerations in the party. The main contenders include Aiyedatiwa, Oke, Akinfolarin, Kekemeke, Akinterinwa, and Jimoh.