Tensions Rise Within APC Support Groups in Ondo State
By Exponent News, Akure, Nigeria – September 10, 2025
A growing rift appears to be emerging among grassroots political support groups aligned with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, as internal disagreements threaten to undermine unity within the party’s local structure.
Concerns have been raised over the activities of a pro-Tinubu group, the Grassroots Movement for Tinubu (GMT), with accusations that it has deviated from its founding objectives of promoting the achievements and policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Observers within the party allege that the group has been involved in internal criticisms and public disagreements that may be fueling tensions between supporters of President Tinubu and those loyal to the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa. Governor Aiyedatiwa has been credited with efforts to unify the party and consolidate governance at the state level since assuming office.
“It is surprising that a group aligned with the President would appear to be in frequent confrontation with the state’s APC-led government,” said a party official who wished to remain anonymous. “Unity is essential as we prepare for future elections, and any act that promotes division is unhelpful.”
While GMT remains one of several support organizations for the president in the state, others such as the South West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA), the Progressive Network for Tinubu (PNT), and PBAT Support Group are said to be engaging more collaboratively with both the state and federal governments.
Some local government officials have also expressed concern that GMT activities are more visible online than in physical grassroots mobilization. In Akure North Local Government, there have been claims of limited engagement or sensitization efforts attributed to the group.
A source within the council pointed out, “You would expect GMT activities to be well-grounded in their leaders’ home constituencies, but that has not been the case.”
Meanwhile, party stakeholders have pushed back against allegations that Governor Aiyedatiwa has sidelined certain individuals in his cabinet choices. Supporters argue that the recent appointments reflect a focus on professionalism and inclusivity aimed at revitalizing governance and party unity.
There are also claims that some political actors are attempting to revisit internal disputes from past primaries and appointments, which many believe should now be set aside in favor of cohesion and forward-looking politics.
Supporters of the governor have reiterated his commitment to President Tinubu’s re-election efforts ahead of the 2027 elections and affirmed that Ondo State remains firmly within the APC’s strategic fold.
As the situation unfolds, political analysts warn that unresolved internal disputes could impact the party’s image and unity at both the state and national levels. The APC leadership in Ondo State is yet to issue an official statement regarding the concerns raised.
