On May 1, 2026, in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, the Senate Leader of the 10th National Assembly, Opeyemi Bamidele, warned members of the All Progressives Congress against forming alliances with opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, stating that such moves could weaken the party and create openings for rivals.
He gave the warning during a meeting with party stakeholders in Ekiti Central Senatorial District, where he explained that opposition groups like the African Democratic Congress are working to attract new members across the country.
He noted that any sign of division within the APC could make it easier for rival parties to gain ground by drawing in dissatisfied members.
Bamidele said internal issues within political parties are normal but warned that poor handling of such matters could lead to serious setbacks. He urged party members to stay loyal and manage disagreements carefully to avoid weakening the party’s structure.
He also spoke about the process for selecting candidates ahead of the elections, explaining that all aspirants would take part in the primaries, whether they emerge through agreement among party leaders or through direct voting. He noted that even those chosen by consensus would still go through a formal process involving party members across the wards.
The Senate Leader advised those contesting for positions, especially aspirants for the House of Representatives, to remain committed to the party even if they do not win. He explained that losing a primary election should not be seen as failure but part of the political process, where only one candidate can emerge at a time.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Ekiti APC Chairman, Sola Eleshin, praised members for maintaining peace within the party in the district. He said the level of unity in Ekiti Central has helped the party remain stable and difficult for opposition groups to penetrate.
Eleshin added that while the party may consider consensus arrangements in some cases, it would still ensure fairness for all aspirants where needed. He encouraged members to continue working together and mobilising support ahead of the elections.
The Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Professor Habibat Adubiaro, also called for unity among party members, stating that the district remains united and committed to the party’s goals. She urged members to follow party leadership and continue to work together as one group.