The Akure Progressive Movement (APM) has distanced itself from a controversial endorsement of aspirants for legislative positions in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State, describing the move as illegitimate and misleading.
In a statement issued by its leader, Hon. Afolabi Akinbowale, a former Chairman of Akure South Local Government, the group rejected claims by a self-styled body purportedly representing leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the area.
The group, reportedly led by Mr. Tony Alla, had issued a statement endorsing aspirants for the House of Representatives and the House of Assembly, claiming to speak on behalf of APC stakeholders in Akure South.
However, the APM dismissed the claim in its entirety, insisting that the group lacks the authority and credibility to act for the party.
According to Akinbowale, the recognised leadership of the APC in Akure South remains firmly rooted in a cadre of established and respected party stalwarts.
He listed prominent figures including Dr. Samuel Bankole Akerele, Chairman of the Elders Council; Otunba Omolade Oluwateru, former Deputy Governor; Asiwaju Sunday Abegunde, Executive Director, Corporate Services at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC); Prof. Olu Aderounmu; Basorun Ifadayo Adedipe (SAN); Engr. Oluwamuyiwa Ogunleye and Hon. Afe Olowookere, both former members of the House of Representatives; Arch. Jide Adejuyigbe, former Local Government Chairman; and Hon. Sir Ademola Adegoroye, former Minister of State for Transport, among others.
The group emphasised that Dr. Akerele remains the recognised leader of the APC in Akure South, warning that any contrary assertion should be disregarded by party members and the public.
The APM further dissociated itself from Mr. Alla’s group, describing it as lacking legitimacy, structure and political relevance within the established framework of Akure politics.
“It is important to state that members of this group are largely unknown within the political structure of Akure and cannot claim to speak for the APC,” the statement noted.
The movement also cautioned Mr. Alla and his associates against presenting themselves as leaders or elders of Akure South, warning that such actions are deceptive and capable of undermining party unity.
It condemned what it described as persistent attempts by the group to discredit representatives of the people at the national level, urging them to desist from such conduct.
Reassuring party faithful, the APM stated that the people of Akure are well informed and capable of identifying genuine leaders, urging vigilance against what it called self-appointed actors with questionable agendas.
The statement was signed by Hon. Afolabi Akinbowale on behalf of the Akure Progressive Movement.
