The attention of the Opomulero Movement has been drawn to a recent publication by Sola Ajisafe, Esq., titled “Breaking the Jinx In Ondo: The Cost of Consensus Without Consent – Adegbonmire and Ipinsagba in Focus.”
Ordinarily, we would have ignored the write-up as another intellectual exercise detached from political reality. However, for the sake of clarity, party unity, and proper political education, it has become necessary to respond.
Let it be clearly stated that Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa remains a committed democrat, a loyal party man, and a strategic leader who understands both governance and party management. Any attempt to portray him as imposing candidates or undermining democratic principles is not only misleading but politically mischievous.
First, the issue of consensus must be properly understood. Consensus within the APC is not a crime; it is a recognized and respected mechanism within the party’s constitution. It has been successfully applied across states, including Lagos, at both legislative and executive levels. To now demonize it in Ondo State simply because it does not favor certain individuals is hypocrisy at its peak.
On the matter of distinguished Senators Niyi Adegbonmire, SAN, and Jide Ipinsagba, we acknowledge their contributions at the National Assembly. However, public office is not a lifetime entitlement. Politics is about renewal, inclusion, and strategic positioning for the future. The suggestion that Ondo State must be held hostage to “ranking” at the expense of broader political balance is both narrow and self-serving.
It is also important to state that ranking does not exist in isolation of political structure. Without a strong party, there can be no platform for such ranking. Governor Aiyedatiwa, as the leader of the party in the state, has the constitutional and moral responsibility to ensure cohesion, fairness, and long-term stability within the APC.
Regarding Sen. Jimoh Ibrahim, his elevation to international service is indeed a pride to Ondo State and Nigeria. However, governance and political decisions cannot be built around hypotheticals or sentiments. The Governor must deal with present realities, not imagined scenarios.
The insinuation that the Governor is acting unilaterally without consultation is far from the truth. Leaders such as Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Bishop Sunday Gbonigi, and other respected elders remain integral to ongoing consultations within the party. Ondo APC is not an orphaned structure, and decisions are not made in isolation.
We find it curious that the same voices advocating for democracy are uncomfortable with internal party decisions when they do not go their way. If indeed the process allows for contest, as they claim, why the panic? Why the media outcry? The truth is simple: consensus is a product of negotiation, influence, and political strength—not noise.
On the reference to Hon. Bunmi Tunji-Ojo, it is important to clarify that national recognition of individuals does not override state-level party dynamics. The strength of the APC lies in its ability to harmonize interests at all levels, not create unnecessary friction.
Let it also be emphasized that Governor Aiyedatiwa is not weakening the party—he is strengthening it. What some describe as “imposition” is, in reality, strategic alignment aimed at avoiding destructive primaries, preserving party unity, and positioning Ondo State for greater political advantage in 2027.
The real “jinx” in Ondo politics is not consensus—it is the persistent attempt by certain political actors to elevate personal ambition above collective interest. That is what the Governor is working to correct.
As Director General of the Opomulero Movement, I make it clear:
We stand firmly with Governor Aiyedatiwa and the leadership of the APC in Ondo State.
Opomulero Movement is not just a platform—it is a formidable political force across Ondo State and the Southwest. We understand the dynamics of power, structure, and loyalty. No serious political process succeeds without coordination, discipline, and leadership direction.
Those who feel aggrieved should engage the party structure constructively rather than resorting to public sensationalism.
In conclusion, the path forward is unity, respect for party supremacy, and alignment with leadership. Governor Aiyedatiwa has demonstrated capacity, calmness, and commitment to progress. He deserves support—not distraction.
Signed:
Hon. Olasupo Olakunori
Director General, Opomulero Movement
Ondo State
