As political tension continue to rise in Idanre Local Government Area following speculation around alleged consensus candidates towards the upcoming primaries of the All Progressives Congress (APC), elder statesman and Chairman of the Governors Advisory Council in Ondo State, Chief Pius Akinyelure, has called for calm, urging party faithful and stakeholders to refrain from action capable of disrupting the peace of the ancient town.
In a strongly worded but conciliatory message made available to the press, Akinyelure dismissed claims of any officially endorsed consensus candidates in Idanre at this stage, describing such reports as premature and capable of heating up the polity in the local government and in Ondo State .
He noted that while internal democratic processes may generate disagreements, it is imperative for members to prioritize unity, discipline and respect for party structures rather than resort to hostility or misinformation.
“Our attention has been drawn to growing tension fuelled by unverified claims of consensus arrangements. Let it be clearly stated that there is no basis for such assertions at the moment. Party members should disregard any narrative intended to mislead or create unnecessary division,” he said.
The respected APC chieftain cautioned political actors and their supporters against heating up the polity, warning that desperation and inflammatory rhetoric could undermine the long-standing reputation of Idanre as a bastion of progressive politics in Ondo State.
He emphasized that peace and reconciliation remain the most potent tools for sustaining the strength and electoral viability of the APC, particularly at a time when unity is crucial for consolidating the gains of the party at both state and national levels.
Akinyelure further urged aggrieved members to channel their concerns through established party mechanisms, stressing that dialogue and consultation are the hallmark of a mature political system.
“Political contests should not degenerate into conflict. We must remember that we are members of one family, bound by a shared vision. Violence, intimidation, or the spread of falsehoods will only weaken our collective strength,” he warned.
He also appealed to party leaders, youths and grassroots mobilizers in Idanre to demonstrate restraint and responsibility, noting that the actions taken at this critical moment would determine the electoral fortune of the party in Idanre in the elections next year. He gave the assurance that available positions would be rationally distributed among qualified candidates.
Reaffirming Idanre’s historical role as a bastion of progressive ideology, Chief Akinyelure called on all stakeholders to close ranks and work towards reconciliation, adding that unity within the party would ultimately translate into electoral success next year.
Political observers in Idanre and Ondo State say this intervention by the apex leader is timely, coming amid heightened anxiety and speculation among party members. This latest intervention by the elder statesman is expected to help douse tension while reinforcing confidence in the party’s internal processes.