The Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday, set out a clear policy direction for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South-west, declaring that the party must embrace inclusive reforms, strengthen internal democracy and entrench merit-based leadership, as he led proceedings at the APC South-west Zonal Public Hearing on constitutional amendments.
Speaking at the Government House Banquet Hall, Akure, venue of the hearing, Governor Aiyedatiwa welcomed participants with what he described as profound honour and personal satisfaction, characterising the gathering as “a South-west Zonal Public Hearing of historic gravitas and enduring institutional value”.
He said the forum was “not a routine political engagement” but a solemn democratic exercise that reflected the APC’s ideological confidence, organisational maturity and reformist resolve.”
The Governor stressed that political parties endure not only by winning elections but by building strong internal institutions, describing a party’s constitution as “not a procedural manual alone; it is its ethical anchor, its governing philosophy and the prism through which power is exercised, restrained and legitimised”.
He commended the National Executive Committee for constituting the APC Constitution Amendment Committee under the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to review and strengthen the 2022 constitution (as amended), describing the decision as one rooted in statesmanship, foresight and fidelity to democratic principles.
Highlighting the nationwide consultative process, Governor Aiyedatiwa said internal democracy “is not an option for the APC; it is fundamental”. He praised the breadth and inclusivity of the engagement, which brought together international democracy-support institutions, civil society organisations, women and youth groups, persons living with disabilities, legislators, party administrators and grassroots representatives.
“A constitution that excludes voices ultimately weakens the institution it seeks to guide,” he said.
The Governor underscored the symbolic and strategic importance of hosting the South-west session in Akure, describing the region as “the intellectual engine room of progressive politics in Nigeria”. He highlighted Ondo state’s history of free education, social welfare and accountable governance, as well as its contemporary commitment to reforms, transparency and people-centred development.
He urged delegates to approach the deliberations with open minds, disciplined judgement and a deep sense of historic responsibility, warning against narrow interests and short-term calculations. He said contributions must be guided by equity, justice and transparency, and by the overarching objective of party unity and national stability.
“The APC of the future must continue to be a party where rules are clear, processes are credible, participation is guaranteed and leadership emerges through merit, service and integrity,” he said.
He also commended the chairman, members and secretariat of the APC Constitution Amendment Committee for their diligence, as well as delegates and stakeholders whose memoranda and submissions, he said, would enrich the process and shape its final outcomes.
In his remarks, the Lagos state deputy governor, Dr. Femi Hazmat, said the South-west had long been a bastion of progressive ideas and leadership. He recalled the pioneering contributions of earlier progressives in strengthening party structures, promoting grassroots mobilisation and ensuring institutional continuity.
Hazmat urged delegates to view constitutional reforms as a tool for consolidating the APC’s democratic credentials, strengthening internal cohesion and safeguarding equitable representation across gender, age and special interest groups. He also called on members to participate actively in decision-making processes, stressing that engagement at every level – from local councils to the national leadership – was crucial for the party’s responsiveness and accountability.
In his welcome address, the Ondo state APC caretaker chairman, Engr Ade Adetimehin, received delegates and highlighted the party’s growing membership. He cited the recent defection of former deputy governor, Hon. Agboola Ajayi and pledged that in the 2027 elections the state would not only replicate its previous performance but double the votes delivered to the party.
Delivering the keynote address, Miriam Odinaka Onuoha, a member of the Constitution Amendment Committee representing the South-east, said the committee was constituted on 26 February 2025 under the party’s national leadership, alongside governors including the chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum. She said the mandate was to review the constitution in line with the demands of a growing membership and an evolving political landscape.
Onuoha stressed the importance of inclusivity, noting that the APC had become a national platform attracting members from other political formations. She drew attention to Article 7 of the constitution, which promotes affirmative action for women, youth and persons with disabilities in party appointments and elections, adding that loyalty and service should be rewarded.
In his vote of thanks, the APC national vice-chairman (South-west), Dr Isaac Kekemeke, encouraged members to participate actively in the ongoing e-registration exercise. He explained the absence of some national officials, citing simultaneous national engagements, including the reception of a prominent party figure in Plateau state.
Kekemeke urged delegates to deliberate on party membership, financial contributions, candidate selection and mechanisms for protecting the interests of women, youth and special groups. He also underscored the need to harmonise multiple versions of the APC constitution to eliminate confusion within the National Working Committee.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; the Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; members of the State Executive Council; and members of the Ondo State House of Assembly.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 27, 2026.