••• Alleges Aiyedatiwa Under Attack from Within
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Banji Okunomo, has accused a federal appointee of using one of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s support groups to pursue a governorship ambition in the state, warning that such actions could destabilize the party ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Okunomo, who made the allegation in a video message posted on his Facebook page on Saturday, expressed concern over what he described as “deliberate attempts to undermine Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa,” the constitutionally recognized leader of the APC in Ondo State.
According to him, “There is a need for us to take strong concern about the ongoing political crisis brewing in Ondo State. If not quickly addressed, it could affect the percentage of victory our party records in the next presidential election.”
He alleged that the unnamed appointee, a “part-time board member of a federal agency,” had been “using President Bola Tinubu’s support group as a cover to promote a personal governorship agenda,” rather than focusing on the collective goal of ensuring the President’s re-election.
«“Why would an appointee of the federal government hide under a support group meant for the President to propagate a governorship agenda? That is not only wrong but an act capable of dividing our party,” Okunomo said.»
He further accused the appointee of “sponsoring media attacks and organizing parallel structures” to undermine the governor.
«“There is leadership hierarchy as defined by the constitution of our party — the governor is the leader. Anyone trying to alter that must be called to order,” he warned.»
Okunomo also urged the APC national leadership and President Tinubu to investigate the activities of the said appointee, noting that “morbid ambition” and “lack of accountability” could weaken the unity of the party in the state.
«“You cannot use the goodwill of our minister or the President to disturb the peace of the APC in Ondo State. We must not allow anybody to scuttle our beautiful chance,” he stated.»
He, however, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his “calmness, humility, and developmental strides,” urging party members to rally around him to ensure overwhelming support for President Tinubu in the next election.
«“Our focus now should be on how President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will get at least 95 percent of votes in Ondo State. Anyone whose priority is the 2029 governorship election is not helping APC,” Okunomo concluded.»
