Ondo North Senatorial Seat Must Return to Owo/Ose After Two-Decade Gap, Insists Aspirant Ajipe
Alex Oluremi Ajipe, a prominent aspirant for the Ondo North Senatorial District, has emphatically declared that the senatorial seat should be returned to the Owo/Ose axis to uphold principles of fairness and equity, following nearly two decades of exclusion from the position. During a recent visit to the All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat in Akure, the Ondo State capital, Ajipe officially announced his bid to contest the 2027 election, urging the party leadership to ensure justice and inclusiveness in the candidate selection process.
Rejection of Automatic Tickets and Call for Fair Primaries
Ajipe strongly rejected any notion of automatic tickets for serving National Assembly members, advocating instead for transparent and competitive primaries. He emphasized that loyalty, positive contributions to the party, and service to the state should be key factors in selecting candidates, rather than preferential treatment based on incumbency. Reflecting on his narrow loss in the party's senatorial primaries four years ago, Ajipe highlighted his continued dedication, including his role in the Tinubu Campaign Organisation, which contributed to the APC's victory in the 2023 polls.
Historical Context and Demand for Rotational Representation
The industrialist and APC chieftain pointed out that the Akoko axis has held the Ondo North Senatorial seat uninterrupted for 16 years, spanning four consecutive terms. He argued that this prolonged tenure necessitates a shift to the Owo/Ose axis, which has not produced a senator in over 20 years. Ajipe stated that his ambition is driven not merely by personal interest but by the collective demand of stakeholders from Owo/Ose, who have consistently agitated for representation in the Senate.
"I have paid my dues in this party since 1998, from AD to AC, ACN to APC. Many of us have worked tirelessly, believing that one day it will be our turn. When it comes to party empowerment, nobody has empowered the party more than I have," Ajipe asserted.
He further drew parallels to national politics, citing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's rise through primaries as an example of why fair opportunities are essential. "There is nothing like an automatic ticket. Everyone should be given a fair chance," he added.
Economic Contributions and Infrastructural Concerns
Beyond political aspirations, Ajipe highlighted his significant economic investments in Ondo State, disclosing that he has invested approximately $4 million and maintained strong relationships with traditional rulers across the district. He also drew attention to critical infrastructural issues, particularly the deteriorating road linking Owo, Ipele, Isua, and Akunnu to Kabba en route to Abuja, describing it as vital for economic development and regional connectivity.
APC Chairman's Assurance of Fairness
In response, the APC Chairman in Ondo State, Hon. Babatunde Kolawole, assured all aspirants of fairness and due process. He stated that the party would provide a level playing field in accordance with its constitution, listening to all candidates before making recommendations. Kolawole clarified that while the party does not endorse aspirants, the state governor, as the party leader, holds the ultimate decision-making authority for the betterment of the state.
"As a party, we will give a level playing ground for all aspirants. We have listened to Chief Alex Ajipe, and we will also listen to other aspirants. At the end of the day, we will recommend who best represents the interest of the party and the people," Kolawole affirmed.
Ajipe concluded his visit by donating a Siena vehicle to the state chapter of the APC to enhance its operational capacity, underscoring his commitment to party development. He also noted that the electorate would ultimately judge the performance of the incumbent senator, Jide Ipinsagba, in the upcoming elections.
