Ondo APC Crisis Deepens as Party Leaders Petition Chairman Over Kekemeke’s Senate Ambition

Fresh cracks have emerged within the Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as party leaders move to block the senatorial ambition of Issac Kekemeke.

A group of APC chieftains from Agadagba-Obon in Ese-Odo Local Government Area has formally petitioned the party’s national chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, describing Kekemeke’s bid for the Ondo South Senatorial ticket as “ill-timed and ill-conceived.”

The controversy follows Kekemeke’s recent declaration to contest the seat vacated after Jimoh Ibrahim was appointed Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

But local party leaders argue the move risks upsetting political balance in the region, pointing out that Kekemeke shares the same local government area as Ambassador Sola Iji and the same federal constituency as Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

They insist allowing another candidate from the same axis would be unfair and politically insensitive, especially in a state where zoning and balance remain critical to party cohesion.

Beyond political concerns, the petition raises legal issues, accusing Kekemeke of violating provisions of the Electoral Act.

The group cited Sections 84 and 88, arguing that political appointees must resign their positions before seeking elective office.

According to the petitioners, Kekemeke is still serving both as APC South-West Zonal Chairman and Chairman of the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), making his candidacy questionable under the law.

They further alleged a pattern of non-compliance, recalling that he reportedly did not resign from office before contesting in a previous governorship election.

“This pattern must not be allowed to repeat itself,” the petition stated, urging party leadership to act decisively.

The chieftains demanded that Kekemeke publicly provide proof of resignation and official acknowledgment from both roles before pursuing the ticket.

They warned that failure to enforce compliance could expose the party to internal disputes and possible legal battles ahead of the elections.

With tensions rising, the petition has now placed the APC national leadership under pressure to enforce its rules and maintain internal discipline in one of its key South-West strongholds.