Stakeholders Demand Fairness in Idanre/Ifedore Constituency for 2027 Election, Back Fadola
Political stakeholders in the Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency of Ondo State have issued a strong call for fairness and balance in the selection of a candidate for the upcoming 2027 general elections. The group, known as "stakeholders for equity and fairness," has expressed its firm support for All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant, Prince Aderosoye Fadola, emphasizing the critical need to uphold the principle of rotation within the constituency.
Historical Context and Division Concerns
The stakeholders highlighted that deviations from the rotational arrangement in the past have led to significant divisions between two dominant political blocs in the area. These blocs are led by Hon. Festus Akingbaso and Hon. Tajudeen Adefisoye, whose rivalry has created a delicate political climate. The group, led by Akinbami Henry, Bamisile Adebowale, Omopariola Franklin, and Ibukun Bode, reaffirmed their commitment to equity, fairness, and balanced representation to avoid further conflict.
In a press statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Adewale Adejayan, the stakeholders described Prince Fadola, an indigene of Ifedore, as a unifying figure capable of stabilizing the constituency. They issued a stark warning that returning the ticket to Idanre, especially if zoned to either faction, could trigger internal conflicts, protest votes, and possible electoral defeat for the APC.
National and Local Precedents for Rotation
The statement drew parallels with national politics, noting: "At the national level, Nigeria has sustained an unwritten but respected principle of power rotation between the North and the South, typically within an eight-year cycle. At no point has power been concentrated in one region for twelve consecutive years. This same spirit of inclusivity must guide political decisions at the grassroots."
Within the Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency, historical precedent since 1999 reflects a commendable pattern of fairness, with each local government enjoying two terms of four years each. Even during slight deviations, no side retained power for twelve uninterrupted years. The stakeholders stressed that this precedent must not be ignored, as it is essential for maintaining harmony and electoral success.
Strategic Call for Ifedore Representation
There are growing concerns that the APC may repeat past mistakes in candidate selection—errors that previously proved costly. The current political climate in Idanre remains delicate, marked by deep divisions. Zoning the ticket to either faction in Idanre risks deepening divisions, encouraging protest votes, and weakening the party's chances at the polls.
The stakeholders stressed that, in the interest of unity and electoral success, the House of Representatives seat should rotate to Ifedore. Describing their position as both strategic and necessary, they urged the party to embrace a balanced approach that would strengthen cohesion and improve its chances in the election.
Fadola's Credentials and Contributions
Highlighting Prince Fadola's credentials, the group noted his role as Director-General of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign in 2023 and his longstanding loyalty to the APC. They also pointed to his significant contributions to human capital development, including:
- Facilitation of over 1,000 JAMB forms across Ondo State in 2024.
- An additional 300 JAMB forms for Ifedore students in 2025.
- Support for students through various educational initiatives.
- Economic empowerment programs for women in the constituency.
- Palliative assistance to over 500 elderly citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the stakeholders, Fadola's track record in education, empowerment, and social welfare demonstrates both capacity and commitment, positioning him as a credible and unifying candidate for the Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency in the 2027 elections.
