Akure, Ondo State
The contest for the Ondo Central Senatorial seat has increasingly become a game of power, influence and political calculation. The unfolding events appear to support the argument that the influence of a single politician, together with the backing of powerful interests within the state, may ultimately determine who emerges as the successful candidate hopefully that may end up in regret at the final poll
This narrative is clearly illustrated by recent developments within the All Progressives Congress (APC), which remains not only the leading political party in Ondo State but arguably the dominant force in the state’s political landscape.
Before the resignation and immediate declaration of interest by the Ondo State Secretary to the Government, Mr. Fasoranti, several aspirants were already positioning themselves for the APC primary election. However, his entry into the race has significantly altered the political equation.
Many observers now believe that Mr. Fasoranti’s candidacy is not based solely on personal ambition or political popularity, but is strongly connected to the influence and support of his father who Ondo State, Yoruba race and Nigeria had served, now desires that the next generation to serve his son, who never experienced any political features until he was imposed on the serving governor who made him the third ranked officer as the Secretary to the Ondo State Government, As a result, the contest is increasingly being viewed less as an open and competitive primary and more as a process that may be shaped by the preferences of his father who believed he controls the political structure.of the present Government in the state
The fear among party members and political stakeholders is that the eventual selection for the Ondo Central Senatorial seat may no longer depend entirely on merit, grassroots popularity, political experience or the wishes of ordinary party members. Instead, it may be determined by the influence of a political and biological powerful father who assumes his support can make or mar any political ambition of other aspirants
This has raised concerns about internal democracy within the APC in Ondo State. If the primary election is perceived to be heavily influenced by political power and personal connections, of a nonagenarian, it may create discontent among other aspirants and their supporters, while also weakening public confidence in the credibility of the process.
As the APC primary approaches, attention will remain focused on whether the party will allow a free, fair and transparent contest, or whether the power and influence of a select few will ultimately decide who represents Ondo Central in the next senatorial election.
Beyond the issue of influence, there is another important dimension to the contest. A senatorial seat, particularly one as strategic as Ondo Central, should not become the preserve of a political class that has not been tested in open political competition. Rather, the seat requires a candidate with proven political experience, a strong understanding of political calculations and grassroots realities, and the ability to deliver results.
Many of these qualities, according to political observers, were already visible among some of the earlier aspirants before the emergence of Mr. Fasoranti. These initial contestants had built their political structures over time, cultivated support across the senatorial district and demonstrated the capacity to withstand the rigours of a competitive election.
It is also important for the APC to recognise the growing strength of opposition parties in Ondo State. The political environment is no longer as predictable as it once was. For this reason, it would be in the interest of the APC to present not merely a preferred candidate, but one who is widely accepted, experienced and popular among voters.
A candidate imposed directly or indirectly may win a primary election but still struggle in the general election. On the other hand, a candidate who emerges through a credible and competitive process is more likely to enjoy the support of party members and the confidence of the electorate.
For this reason, the advice to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa is to ensure that the most popular and acceptable candidate emerges among the aspirants. Any attempt at handpicking, whether openly or behind the scenes, could become a major factor in determining the stability of his administration and the political goodwill available to him during his tenure.
The governor must also remember that politics is often filled with hidden interests. Since the beginning of his ambition to become governor, and even now as the occupant of the office, many individuals who appear to be friends may in reality have different motives. Such individuals may not relent until they frustrate his political vision.
As a popular Yoruba proverb suggests, when one is left alone, one must think carefully and independently, rather than listen to those who cannot contribute positively but can easily destroy what others have built. In essence, Governor Aiyedatiwa must act with caution, wisdom and political foresight in handling the Ondo Central Senatorial contest.
Akinsile Akinniran
Fearless Media
07/04/26