By Samuel Sunday
The Senate Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, on Thursday dismissed concerns over the growing influence of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), urging members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to remain united and focused.
Addressing journalists shortly after a strategic party meeting in Ado Ekiti, he described claims of dual loyalty among some members as overstated, insisting that the ruling party remains solid despite ongoing political realignments.
Bamidele maintained that while it is not unusual for a new political platform like ADC to attempt to attract members nationwide, such efforts have not gained real traction within the APC. He cautioned against unnecessary panic, noting that internal strength and discipline remain the party’s greatest assets in the face of external pressure.
Speaking with party stakeholders at his office in Ajilosun, the senate leader stressed that unity must remain non-negotiable. He warned that opposition parties are keenly observing developments within the APC and could exploit any sign of division to their advantage. According to him, the party must guard against internal cracks that could weaken its structure ahead of critical elections.
On the issue of party primaries, Bamidele reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and internal democracy. He explained that all aspirants would participate in accordance with party guidelines, adding that while consensus is an option, it must be validated across the wards. He emphasized that any objection from stakeholders would automatically trigger direct primaries, ensuring fairness in the process.
He also reflected on the December 2025 stakeholders’ meeting in his country home, where leaders across Ekiti Central unanimously endorsed him without opposition. Bamidele described the moment as deeply humbling, noting that the decision reflected trust and unity within the party. He assured supporters that he would continue to justify their confidence through dedicated service and effective representation.
Highlighting his achievements, the Senate leader pointed to ongoing developmental projects across the senatorial district, including road construction, installation of solar streetlights, support for education, and improvements in healthcare delivery. He added that efforts are also underway in strengthening institutions such as Ekiti State University and advancing the establishment of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences.
In their separate remarks, the APC State Chairman, Sola Elesin Omoleye, called for stronger collaboration among party members, urging them to mobilize support from the grassroots ahead of the governorship election. The Secretary to the State Government, Professor Habibat Omolara Adubiaro, reinforced the message of unity, describing the central district as one indivisible political bloc, while other leaders pledged loyalty and continued support for the party’s agenda.
Dignitaries present at the meeting included Barrister Sola Elesin Omoleye, Prof. Omolara Adubiaro Habibat, Chief Oguntuase, Dr. Femi Thomas, Mrs. Modupe Ogunsaya, local government chairmen, councillors, ward leaders, women leaders, youth leaders, elders, and other APC stakeholders across Ekiti Central.
