The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State is entering a period of intense internal contestation as members begin a premature struggle for the 12 National Assembly seats ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The competition for these legislative slots—comprising three Senate seats and nine House of Representatives seats—has evolved into a complex battle of wits and political intrigue. Rather than a standard race for elective offices, the contest is increasingly viewed as a struggle for dominance and long-term influence within the state’s political hierarchy.
The political maneuvering and rivalries shaping the party’s search for candidates were highlighted in an analysis of the intra-party power plays currently unfolding in Ondo State. The early onset of these rivalries suggests that the battle for legislative representation is already affecting the party’s internal stability.
Strategic positioning for legislative dominance
The 12 seats at stake represent significant political capital. Control over the Senate and House of Representatives seats allows political heavyweights to influence federal resource allocation and secure patronage for their respective constituencies. This high level of influence makes the upcoming primary elections a high-stakes environment where alliances are forged and broken long before the official election cycle begins.
Political actors in the state are already engaging in what many describe as pre-election positioning. This involves building grassroots networks, securing endorsements from local power brokers, and attempting to shape the party’s internal decision-making processes. The goal is to establish a foothold that can withstand the inevitable friction during the formal primary stages.
The complexity of the contest is heightened by the collision of established political figures, who seek to defend their existing territories, and ambitious newcomers aiming to disrupt the current hierarchy. This dynamic is expected to drive the “battle of wits” that characterises the current political climate in the state.
Risks to party cohesion and stability
The early emergence of these rivalries poses a potential threat to the cohesion of the APC in Ondo State. If the internal friction is not managed effectively, the party faces the risk of factionalism, which could leave it vulnerable to opposition incursions during the 2027 polls.
Political observers note that the ability of the state party leadership to navigate these competing interests will be a decisive factor in the party’s success. The selection process for the 12 National Assembly candidates will serve as a major test of the party’s internal democracy and its capacity for conflict resolution.
As the 2027 election cycle gains momentum, the focus remains on whether the APC can consolidate its hold on Ondo State or if the internal struggle for legislative seats will lead to a fragmented front. The party’s next steps in managing its primary processes and candidate selection will determine the direction of the ruling party’s influence in the state.
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