In a startling revelation, Bode Obanla, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, has accused Abayomi Olasanya, the Chief Protocol Officer to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, of orchestrating a campaign of blackmail against the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji Ojo.
This accusation has surfaced amidst growing tensions within the party, as a group loyal to the governor, Asiwaju Mandate Group, appear to have deviated from their foundational principles, which include supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election.
In a video posted on social media on Saturday, Obanla claims that Olasanya is behind a persistent dissemination of false information and propaganda directed at Tunji Ojo, including serious allegations of academic forgery concerning the Minister’s National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate.
Notably, Starnews NG reports that the NYSC has confirmed the authenticity of Ojo’s credentials, yet the faction continues its attacks, prompting many within the APC to distance themselves from such unprofessional behaviour.
Obanla has called upon party leaders, including Governor Aiyedatiwa and Chairman of the APC, Mr. Ade Adetimehin to intervene and rein in Olasanya. He underscored the importance of unity within the party, warning that ongoing discord could undermine their collective objectives, particularly in light of the approaching 2027 elections.
“All those things they are writing about the minister on social media is on the desk of Abayomi Olasanya. I’m calling him out,” Obanla stated, insisting that the governor might not be fully aware of the situation. He further emphasised the necessity of respecting the roles of politicians in Ondo State and urged the state chief protocol to concentrate on his responsibilities rather than engaging in divisive tactics.
The internal strife within the Ondo APC has raised concerns among party members, with many advocating for a return to the core values of support groups and collaboration aimed at ensuring the success of President Tinubu’s administration.
As of now, Olasanya has remained silent amidst these serious allegations, failing to publicly deny any involvement in the purported campaign of blackmail.
Meanwhile, stakeholders have commended Tunji Ojo for his patience and unwavering commitment to his performance, empowerment initiatives, and positive policy changes, despite the mounting distractions.
Many stakeholders have also urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to assume a more active role in fostering united leadership within the APC, encouraging collaboration with Ojo and other federal appointees to drive development in Ondo State.
As the situation unfolds, the leadership of the APC in Ondo State faces the challenge of mending fractures within the party while maintaining a united front as they prepare for future electoral contests.
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