Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo state, has warned aspirants of the All Progressives Congress (APC) against engaging in “do-or-die” politics ahead of the party’s primaries.
Aiyedatiwa spoke on Friday at the APC central senatorial district stakeholders’ meeting held at the Akure township hall.
He said candidates for the upcoming elections would be selected based on merit, loyalty and winnability.
“It is not a do-or-die affair. If you are not chosen, do not rock the boat. Remain in the party. One day, an opportunity will come.
“We will use merit, loyalty and winnability to pick APC candidates at the forthcoming primary of our party,” he said.
The governor said political activities in the state had gathered momentum as the party prepares to commence its electoral process.
He said the process would begin with the collection of expressions of interest and nomination forms, followed by screening and appeals where necessary.
Aiyedatiwa said the party may adopt either direct primaries or consensus arrangements depending on what is agreed.
He urged aspirants to remain calm and respect party decisions, adding that discipline and unity remain critical to the progress of the APC.
Babatunde Kolawole, chairman of the APC in Ondo, reaffirmed the supremacy of the party and described the governor as its leader in the state.
Kolawole said the state working committee remains loyal to Governor Aiyedatiwa and urged aspirants to accept outcomes with maturity. He also reiterated the party’s support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu.