Ondo 2027: Ajipe Declares Senate Bid, Demands Fair Contest in APC
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Alex Ajipe, has declared his ambition to represent Ondo North in the Senate, insisting that his aspiration reflects the long-standing demand of the Owo/Ose axis for equitable representation.
Ajipe said his decision to contest is not driven by personal interest alone but by sustained agitation from stakeholders in Owo and Ose, who he noted have not produced a senator in the last two decades.
“I have paid my dues in this party since 1998, from AD to AC, ACN and now APC. Many of us have worked tirelessly with the belief that one day it will be our turn. When it comes to party empowerment, I have contributed immensely,” he said.
He argued that fairness demands a shift in the senatorial seat, pointing out that the Akoko axis has held the position for four consecutive terms.
“Owo/Ose people are agitating because, in the last 20 years, they have not produced a senator. When Akoko sought the position, it was granted, and it has remained there ever since. It is only fair that it returns to Owo/Ose,” Ajipe added.
The APC stalwart also rejected the idea of automatic tickets, stressing the need for internal democracy within the party. He cited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s emergence through party primaries as an example of the importance of open competition.
“There is nothing like an automatic ticket. Everyone should be given a fair opportunity to contest,” he said.
During his visit, Ajipe donated a Siena vehicle to the state chapter of the party to support its operations, while urging constituents to assess the performance of the incumbent senator, Jide Ipinsagba.
Highlighting his contributions beyond politics, Ajipe revealed that he has invested about $4 million in Ondo State and maintained strong ties with traditional rulers across the district.
He also raised concerns over the poor state of infrastructure in Ondo North, particularly the road linking Owo, Ipele, Isua and Akunnu to Kabba en route Abuja, describing it as vital to economic growth.
In response, the APC State Chairman, Hon. Babatunde Kolawole, assured all aspirants of a transparent and fair process. He emphasised that the party would provide a level playing field in line with its constitution.
“It is the culture of the party to formally receive aspirants. We do not have the power to endorse any aspirant. The leader of the party in the state, the governor, holds that position, and any decision taken will be in the best interest of the state,” Kolawole said.
He added that the party would engage all aspirants before making a final recommendation, stressing that the ultimate goal is to select a candidate who best represents the interests of both the party and the people.
