By Peter Omopo
Akure, September 11, 2025 — Elders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, under the banner of the Ondo Mandate Elders Forum, have denied claims of a rift between Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The clarification came on Wednesday during a meeting at the Akure residence of the forum’s chairman, Chief Erastus Alejo, where party elders reaffirmed their commitment to unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Facilitator of the group, Dr. Demola Ijabiyi, told journalists that reports of a quarrel between the two leaders were mere fabrications circulating on social media.
“We do not recognise any discord between Governor Aiyedatiwa and Bunmi Tunji-Ojo. The dispute exists only in the imagination of social media influencers. There is nothing to reconcile,” Ijabiyi said.
He stressed that the elders’ focus was on strengthening the APC in Ondo State and mobilising support to secure a landslide victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
According to Ijabiyi, the forum aims to foster socio-political interaction among APC elders, build cohesion within the party, troubleshoot crises when necessary, and serve as a strong support base for the President.
“Ondo State delivered over 60 per cent in the last election. With more than 1.9 million registered voters, we believe we can deliver over one million votes for Tinubu in 2027,” he said.
The meeting drew attendance from prominent party figures, including former Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Sehinde Kumuyi; former Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; former Commissioner, Femi Agagu; Chief Bailey Arohunmolase; Mr. Ebenezer Alabi; Chief Korede Duyile; Chief Femi Bakare; Senator Yele Omogunwa; and Chief Olabisi Johnson, among others.
