Ondo Elders Urge Aiyedatiwa To Consult Widely Before Choosing Candidates

Leaders of the PBAT Mandate Elders Forum in Ondo State have urged Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to prioritise wide consultations in the process of selecting candidates ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries.

The group cautioned against imposing candidates under the guise of consensus, stressing that inclusive decision-making remains key to party unity and electoral success.

Át a press conference, the forum’s facilitator, Hon. Demola Ijabiyi, said that although governors often play a significant role in candidates’ selection, such responsibility must be exercised with caution and broad engagement.

According to him, a governor who seeks lasting political stability must listen to stakeholders at all levels of the party before making decisions.

“We have only heard reports about possible consensus arrangements, but no official list has been released. As elders, we remain neutral. However, a wise leader is expected to consult widely and carry people along,” Ijabiyi said.

He added that while the forum would abide by whatever mode of primaries the party adopts, proper consultation would help prevent internal crises.

‎Also speaking, legal practitioner Shola Ajisafe, a member of the group, reinforced the call for inclusiveness, warning that unilateral decisions could alienate party members and weaken grassroots support.

‎“Politics is about engagement and listening to the people. The governor cannot be everywhere during elections, so those at the grassroots must feel involved. When people are consulted, they are more willing to mobilise support,” he said.

‎Ajisafe noted that failure to engage party leaders, youths, and other stakeholders could lead to dissatisfaction and internal conflict.

‎He added, “If consultation is ignored, it creates disenchantment and dissent within the party. That is something we must avoid. The governor needs to reach out, listen, and take into account the views of the people.”