The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State to lead an inclusive government following a meeting with aggrieved governorship aspirants who participated in the primary election.
As reported by PUNCH, The party's National Working Committee (NWC) engaged in a two-hour discussion with the governor and the aspirants to foster unity ahead of the November governorship election.
The outcome of the meeting was disclosed by the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Duro Meseko, during a press conference at the party secretariat in Abuja.
During the briefing, Meseko stated, "It was agreed at the meeting that because of the complaints that trailed the outcome of the primary by some of the aspirants, there is a need for the party to continue dialogue with all the aspirants individually and collectively to have a common ground for the forthcoming elections in the state.
Also, it is for them to be able to work together as a united family." He further emphasized that the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, should prioritize "inclusive governance" by involving the other aspirants in the state's affairs, despite their inability to participate directly in the government.
The resolution of the APC was reiterated by Ade Adetimehin, the State Chairman of Ondo APC, who addressed reporters at the party secretariat.
He confirmed that the NWC had agreed to continue engaging with all the aspirants and run an inclusive government in Ondo State. Adetimehin emphasized the need for unity within the party and expressed confidence in the APC's strength and support in Ondo State.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, while speaking to journalists after visiting the State House in Abuja, acknowledged that the election had taken place and urged party leaders to work towards resolving disagreements and fostering a unified front.
He stated, "We are all winners; all the 16 aspirants, I’ll call them family members because it’s a family affair. We were just looking for a flag bearer among us, and a flag bearer has emerged. Now, we have to work together."
The peace meeting saw the attendance of virtually all the aspirants who participated in the primary election, with the aim of finding common ground and ensuring a harmonious working relationship within the party.