GMT Criticizes Ondo APC Leadership Over Support Groups Registration Directive
The Grassroots Movement for Tinubu (GMT), a prominent support group mobilizing for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has strongly criticized the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State over a directive requiring all support groups to register with the party. In a statement issued over the weekend, GMT described the move as unfortunate and warned that it could hinder mobilization efforts for the president's re-election.
GMT Accuses Party Executives of Pursuing Vendetta
GMT expressed dismay that the current APC executives in Ondo State appear more focused on issuing what it termed draconian orders rather than uniting stakeholders. The group accused the leadership of pursuing a teleguided vendetta against certain party members, instead of seeking legitimacy and reconciliation following recent violent incidents.
According to the statement signed by GMT Director of Media in the state, Ojo Oyewamide, the directive could undermine efforts to rally support for President Tinubu. Oyewamide emphasized that support groups have been the backbone of the party's survival over the past year and should not be coerced into compliance.
Background of Tensions Within Ondo APC
The controversy comes amid growing friction within the APC in Ondo State, following violent congresses and stakeholders meetings that resulted in the death of some party members and left others critically injured. GMT highlighted that many supporters are still grieving or hospitalized due to these incidents.
The statement pointed out that the APC last held ward meetings across the state's 203 wards in November 2024, during the build-up to the governorship election. Since then, party engagement has been minimal, with reports of violence, intimidation, and disruption of lawful congresses by thugs.
Governor Aiyedatiwa's Stance and GMT's Position
GMT noted that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as the party leader in the state, has welcomed the emergence of more support groups, acknowledging their role in his own electoral success. The group advised the current APC leadership to focus on policies that unite members, heal wounds, and foster reconciliation.
Oyewamide stated, "We view this directive as an anti-mobilisation move against the re-election of President Tinubu. GMT is a national body duly registered with the APC at the national level in Abuja. The Ondo State chapter derives its authority from the party's national structure."
Implications for APC's Future in Ondo State
The ongoing dispute signals deeper issues within the Ondo APC, with GMT firmly resisting any attempts to use party structures to force compliance. The group warned that such directives could jeopardize the party's chances in upcoming elections, emphasizing the need for unity and effective leadership.
As tensions escalate, the APC faces the challenge of reconciling factions and ensuring a cohesive strategy for President Tinubu's re-election campaign. GMT's resistance underscores the critical role of support groups in Nigerian politics and the potential consequences of internal conflicts on electoral outcomes.
