Stakeholders within the Youth Wing of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ketu Zone, Imeko/Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State, have rejected what they described as a purported “consensus endorsement” of Hon. Jemili Adigun Akingbade for a fourth term in the Ogun State House of Assembly, insisting that due process must be followed.

In a communiqué issued on Saturday and signed by the Chairman, Hon. Muyheed Ibrahim, and Secretary, Comrade Yunus Fayomi, the stakeholders described the endorsement claim as “misleading and unfounded,” noting that it did not reflect the true position of the party in the zone.

The group stated that there was no unanimous agreement among recognised leaders, elders, and stakeholders across Ketu Zone to adopt any aspirant as a consensus candidate.

According to the communiqué, “What was presented to the public was nothing more than a kangaroo arrangement attended by less than half of the recognised party structure within Ketu Zone. It is therefore inaccurate and deceptive to describe such a gathering as representing the collective will of the APC in Imeko/Afon.”

The stakeholders further alleged that some attendees were misled about the purpose of the meeting, claiming they were invited under the impression that it was an official campaign flag-off to be attended by Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola.

“They were lured under false pretences to create a false impression of endorsement for a self-acclaimed consensus aspirant. This act of political manipulation undermines the integrity of our party and disrespects the democratic process that APC stands for,” the statement added.

Reaffirming their commitment to internal democracy, the group emphasised that leadership and representation must be anchored on transparency, inclusiveness, and genuine grassroots support, rather than what it termed “stage-managed endorsements.”

They urged party members and supporters across Imeko/Afon to remain calm and focused, assuring that a credible aspirant would emerge through a fair and open process.

“The future of our constituency cannot be decided by a select few under questionable circumstances. It must reflect the collective will of the people. Power belongs to the people, and only the people can decide who leads them,” the communiqué concluded.