The Senate Leader of Nigeria’s 10th National Assembly, Opeyemi Bamidele, has issued a stern warning to members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, cautioning against disloyalty and covert alliances with opposition groups.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Ado-Ekiti, Bamidele stressed that internal divisions within the party could provide fertile ground for opposition parties such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to recruit dissatisfied members.
He noted that the ADC, though relatively new, is actively expanding its presence nationwide by targeting disgruntled politicians. According to him, while such overtures are not unique to Ekiti, the APC must remain vigilant to prevent internal fractures that could weaken its dominance.
Bamidele urged party faithful to remain loyal and committed, emphasising that effective internal management is key to avoiding a crisis. He warned that opposition parties are closely monitoring the APC for signs of discord that could be exploited for political gain.
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Addressing concerns about the forthcoming party primaries, the Senate Leader clarified that all aspirants would participate in the process, whether through consensus or direct primaries. He explained that even candidates who emerge through consensus must still undergo formal affirmation by party members across all wards.
He further encouraged aspirants, particularly those contesting for House of Representatives seats, to accept the outcomes of the primaries in good faith. Electoral defeat, he said, should not be interpreted as personal failure but rather as part of the democratic process.
Echoing his sentiments, Ekiti APC Chairman Sola Eleshin praised members for maintaining peace within the district, describing Ekiti Central as a model of political stability. He expressed confidence that the opposition would struggle to gain a foothold due to the performance of APC representatives at the national level.
Eleshin also assured aspirants of a fair process, noting that while consensus arrangements may be considered, direct primaries would be conducted where necessary to ensure transparency.
Meanwhile, the Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Professor Habibat Adubiaro, reinforced the call for unity, insisting that there was no division within the party. She urged members to continue presenting a united front and to follow party leadership directives.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from party leaders to strengthen cohesion and mobilise support ahead of upcoming elections.
