AKURE — The political rift between Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and members of the National Assembly from the state has reportedly intensified, amid allegations that the governor is making moves that could prevent the lawmakers from securing return tickets ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A senior member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who spoke anonymously, alleged that the governor was determined to block the nine members of the House of Representatives and two senators from returning to the National Assembly.
According to the party leader, the governor had taken his concerns to President Bola Tinubu, accusing the lawmakers of losing touch with their constituents and lacking grassroots support.
The source claimed that Governor Aiyedatiwa met with the President at the Presidential Villa last Thursday, where he reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the performance and popularity of the federal lawmakers and sought the President’s support in bringing in new representatives.
“The governor allegedly told the President that none of the current federal lawmakers from Ondo State should be allowed to return because they are no longer popular among the people,” the source said.
The meeting between the governor and the President reportedly followed violent incidents that occurred during the APC ward congress in Idanre. The unrest left four people dead, 10 others injured, and a vehicle destroyed. It was gathered that the governor used the opportunity of the meeting to also raise issues concerning the lawmakers.
The party leader further quoted the governor as suggesting that the state needed a fresh political direction ahead of the next election cycle, noting that the current lawmakers were originally imposed on the state during the administration of the late former governor, Rotimi Akeredolu.
However, another APC chieftain dismissed the allegations, insisting that Governor Aiyedatiwa had not endorsed any aspirants or taken any action to block sitting lawmakers from contesting again.
The party leader said the governor had already clarified his position due to growing political tension and speculation ahead of the party primaries.
According to the source, the governor emphasized the importance of avoiding rumours and misinformation capable of causing division within the party, adding that he maintains a cordial relationship with the lawmakers.
The source maintained that the claims being circulated do not reflect the governor’s official position but rather the personal opinion of those making the allegations.
Cold War Deepens Between Ondo Governor Aiyedatiwa and Federal Lawmakers Over 2027 Return Tickets
