WE SHOULD NOT COMMIT BLUNDERS TO CORRECT MISTAKES: APC CHIEFTAIN CHALLENGED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PARTY CHAIRMAN

It is deeply concerning that a circular emerged from an emergency meeting reportedly convened by the Ondo West Local Government Party Chairman, Hon. Aro Bernard, without the presence or input of key party officers. The absence of critical stakeholders—such as the Party Secretary, the Woman Leader, the Youth Leader, and other executive members—raises questions about the legitimacy and transparency of the meeting itself.

More troubling is the apparent disregard for the constitutional provisions of our great party. From the preamble to the foundational aims and objectives, the APC Constitution emphasizes unity, inclusiveness, and adherence to due process. Article 9, Section B2, for instance, clearly articulates the importance of collective participation and mutual respect among all members.

If indeed Hon. Aro Bernard sanctioned or was aware of the circular circulated thereafter, his understanding—and possibly his qualifications—to lead the party at the local government level deserve serious scrutiny. It is not only a matter of leadership, but of basic constitutional literacy. One must ask: how many executives constitute a quorum? Under what conditions can votes of confidence be passed, especially when they concerned ward executives whose actions may compromise the party’s integrity?

One might be tempted to attribute these missteps to ignorance. However, Article 25, Section F (iv) of the party’s constitution is unambiguous: in the absence of a ward chairman, the Congress reserves the right to nominate a substitute to preside over proceedings, provided any motions are properly moved and consented to. This provision reflects the party’s commitment to procedural integrity, even in unexpected circumstances.

The events of recent days strongly suggest that the Local Government Chairman is not only aware of these procedural breaches but is also complicit in orchestrating them. The selective endorsement by a few ward chairmen last week reeks of manipulation and factionalism—an act that undermines party cohesion and public trust.

It is imperative for the larger Congress in Ondo West to urgently engage Hon. Aro Bernard and demand explanations. Why is the authority of his office being used in a manner that discredits the party’s values? Is his leadership bringing cohesion or disrepute to the local chapter?

Instead of compounding existing mistakes with constitutional blunders, I urge Hon. Aro Bernard to revisit and rigorously study the party’s amended 2022 constitution. Leadership is not about convenience or control—it is about responsibility, knowledge, and service.

As it stands, even the eight ward chairmen affected by recent controversies may soon face the same fate as Ward 11 Chairman, Mr. Akinola Adewale Austin, who continues to suffer the consequences of ill-conceived political maneuvers. Until proper reconciliation occurs, and constitutional processes are respected, Ondo West APC may remain on a precarious path.

Signed by the underlisted members

Akintunde john youth leader ward 7

Olorunsola Peter Secretary ward 9

Onipade olasunkanmi organizing Secretary ward 10

Ward 4 Pastor Adesoye Sola Asst Secretary

Asst Secretary ward 3, Olusola Oreoluwa Bademosi