Ahead of its governorship primary, the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Ondo, has warned supporters of governorship aspirants against divisive actions and utterances.  

The warning came after some pioneer party leaders under the auspices of ‘Aborigines’ openly declared their support for incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who is running to retain the seat of power. 

The party leaders led by the former Nigerian Ambassador to Togo, Sola Iji, former deputy leader of the Senate, Ajayi Boroffice, Tokunbo Ajasin, Taiwo Malumi, Grace Animola, Yinusa Adeola and Akinsehinde Awodeyi-Apata declared Mr Aiyedatiwa as their preferred candidate for the primary. 

However, in a statement on Thursday, the party said it would not condone acts that make some of its members, particularly aspirants, feel inadequate or inferior to others. 

APC chairman Ade Adetimehin described the idea of some people constituting themselves “the Aborigines of APC” in Ondo as unnecessary.

“The chapter is for all and would continue to encourage equal opportunities for all the members. New members should entertain no fears in this regard,” the statement said.

The party advised the governorship aspirants to be wary of desperate supporters who fan embers of disunity for personal gains, stressing that “their action is not healthy for the vibrant chapter of our dream.”

The statement pleaded with political gladiators to show regard for the governorship aspirants and other stakeholders to avoid unnecessary friction.

Twelve governorship aspirants have obtained the party’s nomination form, including the incumbent governor, Olusola Oke, Diran Iyantan, Wale Akinterinwa, and Jimmy Odinmayo.

Others are Jimoh Ibrahim, Gbenga Edema, Mayowa Akinfolarin, Isaacs Kekeme, Adedayo Faduyile, Olumide Ohunyeye and Funmi Waheed-Adejoko.