2027: Rift deepens between Aiyedatiwa, Ondo NASS members amid replacement claims

The cold war between Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and All Progressives Congress (APC) members representing the state in the National Assembly has reportedly deepened ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A top party source in Akure alleged that the governor has vowed that none of the nine House of Representatives members and two senators from the state would secure return tickets.

According to the source, Aiyedatiwa allegedly reported the lawmakers to Bola Tinubu, citing their purported unpopularity and weak grassroots connection, and sought the president’s understanding to scout for replacements.

“The governor met with the president at the Presidential Villa last Thursday and allegedly said the federal lawmakers from Ondo State were no longer popular,” the source claimed.

The meeting reportedly followed violence during the APC ward congress in Idanre, where four persons were killed, 10 injured, and property destroyed.

The source further alleged that the governor used the opportunity to push for a “clean slate” ahead of 2027, arguing that the current lawmakers had lost touch with constituents.

However, another party leader dismissed the claims, stating that the governor has not endorsed or approved any aspirant for the party’s ticket.

The governor was said to have clarified at a stakeholders’ meeting that he would not stop any lawmaker from seeking re-election, warning against rumours capable of causing division within the party.

Vanguard gathered that members of the House of Representatives had earlier met with the governor at the Government House to express their intention to contest again in 2027.

Contacted for reaction, Hon. Donald Ojogo, representing Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency, denied knowledge of such claims.

We are unaware of any meeting where the governor told the president such stories. That is the opinion of whoever is spreading it and not the position of the governor, with whom we have a good relationship,” Ojogo said.

He described the reports as misinformation aimed at creating a rift between the governor and federal lawmakers.

Culled from vanguard