Ahead of the 2027 general elections, aspirants vying for the Ondo East/Ondo West Federal Constituency seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have opposed alleged moves to impose a consensus candidate.

The aspirants, Jibayo Adeyeye, Ade Adeniyi, Bola Fisayo, and Michael Ajilo, made their position known in a communiqué issued after a meeting, warning that such a move could undermine internal democracy within the party.

They maintained that all contenders had duly obtained nomination forms and were prepared to participate in a direct primary election.

“We are not part of any consensus arrangements leading to the endorsement of any candidate for our federal constituency.

“We have all obtained the Expression of Interest and Nomination form to contest the forthcoming primary election of our party,” the aspirants stated.

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The group also called for a transparent and credible process in selecting the party’s candidate, stressing their commitment to offering viable representation at the National Assembly.

They hinted at ongoing consultations among themselves but assured constituents that their collective goal remains the emergence of a credible flagbearer.

However, the APC, through its spokesperson in Ondo State, Steve Otaloro, dismissed the allegations, describing them as premature and unfounded.

“The primary election has not yet been conducted… It is therefore premature for anyone to speak of a consensus at this stage.”

Otaloro added that the party leadership had been engaging stakeholders across the state and insisted there was no plan to impose any candidate.

“Allegations of attempting to impose a candidate are not only unfounded but also a disservice to leaders who have consistently demonstrated strong democratic credentials.”

He assured party members that all concerns would be addressed through due process to ensure fairness.

Meanwhile, tensions within the party have reportedly escalated, with protests said to have occurred in parts of Odigbo Local Government Area over fears of candidate imposition ahead of the primaries.