Your Excellency,
I write in my capacity as the Director General of the Opomulero Group, with deep concern over the recent petition submitted by Olatunde Ajayi under the platform of “Concerned Indigenes and Members of APC,” and the rising tension within our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly in Ondo North Senatorial District.
The petition against Senator Olajide Ipinsagba, which questions his performance and seeks to deny him a return ticket, must not be viewed merely through the narrow lens of performance assessment. It brings to the fore a more fundamental and long-standing issue — the imperative of zoning, fairness, and equitable representation within Ondo State politics.
Historical Perspective We Must Not Ignore
Our political history offers useful guidance.
In 2011, under the leadership of Dr. Olusegun Mimiko and the Labour Party, senatorial tickets were distributed across the three districts:
Boluwaji Kunlere – South
Ayo Akinyelure – Central
Adenekan Olateru Olagbegi – North
While most candidates enjoyed smooth emergence, Ondo North witnessed a disruption driven by the strong advocacy of the Akoko bloc for rotational justice. This agitation ultimately produced Senator Ajayi Boroffice from the Akoko axis.
This precedent clearly underscores one truth: zoning and rotation have always been critical tools for maintaining balance and fairness in our political system.
The Present Reality: A Case for Equity
Today, the facts are clear and undeniable:
The Akoko axis has held the Ondo North senatorial seat for approximately 16 years — 12 years under Senator Boroffice and 4 years under Senator Ipinsagba.
The Owo/Ose Federal Constituency, within the same district, has not produced a Senator in this period.
This imbalance raises legitimate concerns about inclusion, fairness, and political justice.
Zoning is not a sign of weakness; it is a proven mechanism for strengthening unity, deepening loyalty, and ensuring that no bloc feels perpetually excluded.
Additional Concern: Federal Representation Imbalance
It is also important to highlight that the Akoko axis already enjoys significant federal presence, including notable figures such as:
Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
Hon. Taiwo Oladele
Mr. Olasupo Olusi
Alongside several other federal appointees and executives
This concentration of influence further strengthens the argument for balancing representation by giving Owo/Ose a fair opportunity at the senatorial level.
A Word of Caution
While internal critique is essential in a democratic party, it must not be weaponized through faceless groups or used as a destabilizing tool.
If not carefully managed, the current situation risks:
Deepening internal divisions.
Weakening APC’s electoral strength in Ondo North.
Undermining confidence in the party’s internal democratic processes.
Our Appeal
In the interest of unity, justice, and long-term political success, I humbly call on Your Excellency and the national leadership of our party to:
Intervene decisively to de-escalate tensions within Ondo North APC.
Ensure a fair transparent, and consultative process regarding the senatorial ticket.
Uphold and respect zoning principles, giving due consideration to Owo/Ose Federal Constituency.
Discourage anonymous and divisive political campaigns that threaten party cohesion.
Conclusion.
The strength of the APC lies in its capacity to manage diversity with wisdom, reward loyalty with fairness, and build unity through inclusion.
Ondo State must not be allowed to descend into avoidable internal conflict when a just and strategic decision can consolidate our gains and secure future victories.
History will judge the decisions we make today. Let those decisions reflect courage, equity, and foresight.
Respectfully,
Hon. Olasupo Olakunori
Director General, Opomulero Group
