A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly criticized the recent actions of the Ondo West Local Government Party Chairman, Hon. Aro Bernard, describing them as unconstitutional and detrimental to party unity.
The controversy follows a circular issued after an emergency meeting allegedly convened by Hon. Bernard—without the presence of key local government executive members, including the Secretary, Woman Leader, Youth Leader, and others. This has raised concerns about the legitimacy and intent of the meeting.
“It is unfortunate that the chairman seems unfamiliar with the constitutional provisions of the party,” the APC chieftain noted. “From the preamble to the very first statement in the aims and objectives, and specifically Article 9, Section B2, the emphasis is clear: unity and togetherness among members must be upheld.”
The chieftain further questioned the Chairman’s knowledge of party law, especially regarding the quorum required to hold an official meeting and the authority to pass a “vote of confidence” on ward leaders with questionable records.
“If Hon. Aro Bernard was truly aware of the circular issued, then his capacity to lead must be called into question,” the statement continued. “He seems unaware of Article 25, Section F, Subsection (iv), which provides that in the absence of a ward chairman, any member can be chosen to preside over meetings, provided the Congress consents.”
Describing the recent “endorsement” by selected ward chairmen as ill-conceived and orchestrated, the chieftain insisted that it was a ploy masterminded by Hon. Bernard himself, further undermining the credibility of the local party leadership.
“It is time for the Congress in Ondo West to demand answers. Why is Hon. Aro Bernard using his exalted office to drag the local government party structure into disrepute?” the chieftain asked.
He advised the chairman to thoroughly study and apply the party’s constitution moving forward. “Unless the people of Ondo West choose to accept the embarrassment and ignorance demonstrated by his recent actions, the chairman must retrace his steps.”
The statement concluded with a warning that other ward chairmen—especially the eight affected—might face a similar fate to that of Ward 11 Chairman, Mr. Akinola Adewale Austin, who remains disheartened and in limbo pending the chairman’s next move.