Aiyedatiwa Unifies Pro-Tinubu Campaign Groups Ahead of 2027, Moves to Tighten Grip on Ondo APC

In a strategic political move ahead of the 2027 presidential election, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has dissolved multiple pro-Tinubu campaign groups operating in the state and launched a unified platform, ‘Ondo State for Tinubu 2027.’ The development is widely seen as an attempt by the governor to consolidate control over the party’s political structure amid rising internal tensions.

Previously, groups such as the Grassroots Movement for Tinubu, Asiwaju Mandate Group, and PBAT Continuity Project had independently canvassed support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid. However, Aiyedatiwa’s decision to centralize these efforts under a single umbrella group was formalized during an emergency caucus meeting of APC leaders, held over the weekend at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Akure.

Sources within the party disclosed to Vanguard that the governor’s inner circle grew increasingly wary of the growing influence of certain individuals behind these support groups. Concerns reportedly centered on fears that these factions might use their platforms to challenge the governor’s authority, particularly in the lead-up to the 2028 Ondo governorship race. “It was a strategic move—almost a coup,” said a close aide. “The governor’s team saw potential threats and acted quickly to clip their wings.”

Invitation letters to the meeting were personally signed by Governor Aiyedatiwa, bypassing the usual party administrative channels—a sign of how seriously the move was taken. The outcome was the formal endorsement of President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election and the establishment of a centralized campaign body under the direct supervision of state party leaders.

In his address, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the importance of unity and structure within the party. “All support groups must now operate under the leadership of the main party structure,” he declared. “We don’t have a governorship election coming up in Ondo. Our focus should be total mobilization for the president’s victory in 2027—and not just a win, but a landslide in the South West.”

The governor noted that the State Caucus would now meet regularly to coordinate activities and ensure alignment with national party goals. The new campaign body will be coordinated by Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, and APC State Secretary, Mrs. Roseline Okafor.

High-profile attendees at the meeting included Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Senators Jide Ipinsagba and Adeniyi Adegbonmire, former senators and speakers, federal and state lawmakers, and key party stalwarts including APC State Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin.

With this development, Governor Aiyedatiwa has firmly reasserted his authority within the Ondo APC, positioning himself as a key player in President Tinubu’s 2027 campaign while preemptively neutralizing potential political rivals within his party.