Members of the All Progressives Congress Aggrieved Aspirants Forum in Ondo State have declared their unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election bid in the 2027 presidential election, despite their longstanding grievances with the party.
Endorsement Amid Unresolved Issues
The forum members made their position known during a gathering in Akure, where they officially endorsed President Tinubu and passed a vote of confidence on his administration. Team leader Taiwo Agunloye emphasized that their grievances, which date back to the 2014, 2018, 2019, and 2023 election cycles, would not prevent them from backing the president's re-election campaign.
Agunloye revealed the depth of their discontent, stating that the group had maintained the "aggrieved" label in their name deliberately. "We were supposed to be Aspirants Forum, but we remain Aggrieved Aspirants Forum," he explained, noting that party leaders had promised to address their concerns after the 2018 elections but never followed through.
The Human Cost of Political Neglect
The forum leader disclosed the tragic consequences of their political struggles, revealing that three members had died due to trauma related to their electoral experiences. Additionally, one member lost his wife under similar circumstances.
"Some people died due to trauma from how elections went," Agunloye stated emotionally. "Someone who was supposed to win an election but was affected by decisions from the party or one man somewhere is now dead."
He lamented the lack of recognition and compensation for aspirants who invested heavily in the party, while newcomers received appointments. "In many wards and local governments, they do not recognize us because they think we spent our money and finished our money," Agunloye added.
Security and Economic Improvements Drive Support
Despite their personal grievances, the forum members pointed to tangible improvements under Tinubu's administration as reasons for their support. Agunloye specifically highlighted enhanced security in Ondo State, declining food prices, and a stabilizing exchange rate as positive developments.
"For every politician, interest is number one, but my interest is public interest," Agunloye stated. "For the security we are enjoying in Ondo State, that is a good thing. I am benefiting from it and everyone is benefiting."
He praised President Tinubu's decision to remain in Nigeria during periods of crisis, describing it as a demonstration of seriousness and commitment to national security.
The forum has now committed to mobilizing support across all wards and local governments in Ondo State to ensure Tinubu's successful return to office in 2027. Agunloye concluded with a message of hope: "But now God is blessing us. We are coming on board, going to every nook and cranny of this state and the nation to bring out all our supporters for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu."
