Tension within the Ogun chapter of the APC escalated as four senatorial aspirants openly rejected Senator Shuaib Salisu's endorsement as the party's consensus candidate. This move highlights the growing rift among party members, who are increasingly vocal about their desire for a primary election to select the nominee. The aspirants argue that a fair contest is essential for maintaining democratic principles within the party.
In a statement, one of the aspirants, Adeola Ogunyemi, emphasized, "The party must allow its members to decide who represents them through a transparent primary process." This sentiment reflects a broader frustration with top-down decision-making that many believe undermines grassroots involvement. The call for primaries not only indicates dissatisfaction with the endorsement but also signals a potential shift in power dynamics within the Ogun APC.
Looking ahead, this dispute could have significant implications for the party's unity and electoral strategy as the 2026 elections approach. Without resolving these internal conflicts, the APC risks weakening its position against rival parties in Ogun State, potentially jeopardizing its chances in the upcoming electoral contests.