APC Ondo State Commends Senatorial Aspirant’s Visit, Reaffirms Commitment to Transparent Primary Process
The Ondo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has commended Mr. Mathew Oyerinmade, an aspirant for the Southern Senatorial District, for formally visiting the party secretariat in Akure to declare his intention to contest in the forthcoming senatorial primary.
Speaking on behalf of the party, the State Chairman, Hon. Kolawole Babatunde, described the visit as a demonstration of respect for party structure and leadership, noting that while it is not mandatory for aspirants to formally present themselves at the secretariat, such gestures reflect political maturity and deep-rooted commitment to party ideals.
Hon. Babatunde further praised Mr. Oyerinmade’s extensive political profile, characterizing him as a credible and longstanding progressive who has contributed meaningfully to the growth and stability of the APC in Ondo State.
The Chairman reiterated that the party’s mode of selecting candidates remains anchored on consensus and direct primary, emphasizing that consensus would always be the preferred option where it is mutually agreed upon by the leadership and stakeholders of the party.
He stressed that where such consensus is reached, it is expected that all aspirants abide by the decision in the interest of party unity and cohesion. However, in the absence of consensus, the party will conduct a direct primary to ensure a fair and democratic process.
He urged party members and aspirants to exercise patience, maturity, and sportsmanship, particularly in situations where consensus decisions may not favor individual ambitions. Drawing from personal experience, Hon. Babatunde reflected on a past instance where a consensus arrangement did not favor his return to the National Assembly, only for him to later emerge as the State Chairman of the party- a development he described as a divine redirection. He noted that, in hindsight, he holds his current position in higher esteem and urged aspirants to trust the broader vision of the party.
Hon. Babatunde concluded by wishing Mr. Oyerinmade success in his political aspirations and called on all aspirants to sustain a spirit of unity, mutual respect, and healthy engagement as consultations continue ahead of the party primaries.
In his remarks, Mr. Mathew Oyerinmade reaffirmed his intention to contest for the Southern Senatorial District seat, describing himself as a committed party chieftain with a strong progressive background and a consistent record of contributions to the party’s development.
He categorically dispelled rumors suggesting that he had stepped down from the race, describing such claims as false and unfounded. He maintained that he remains fully in contention for the party’s ticket.
While expressing confidence in the party’s ability to provide a level playing field for all aspirants, Mr. Oyerinmade stated that he is not opposed to a consensus arrangement, affirming his willingness to support the outcome- even if it does not favor him. Responding to media inquiries, he reiterated his stance, adding with conviction that rather than stepping down, he is optimistic that other aspirants may, in due course, align with his ambition.
The APC Ondo State chapter remains committed to a transparent, inclusive, and credible process that will ultimately produce a candidate capable of delivering victory for the party in the party primaries.
