The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has alleged uncovering plans by the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to instigate a crisis in Akure, the state capital today.
The party claimed that the essence of the plot is to create a semblance of political instability in the peaceful state and portray the ruling party in a bad light ahead of next year’s governorship election.
In a statement by its publicity secretary, Alex Kalejaiye, the APC said, “It has come to our knowledge that some PDP chieftains, who have started making huge contributions, in collaboration with some players within our fold, have finalised plans to destabilise the Sunshine State,” the party alleged.
The party said Ondo State had been peaceful, organised and enjoyed enviable political stability, and industrial harmony.
Kalejaiye said, “It is unbelievable that the main opposition party, PDP, which is engulfed by leadership in Abuja, will prefer to go into an unholy alliance with some elements in APC to foment an avoidable crisis in Ondo State. “
In a swift reaction, the PDP in the state described the APC as a party that is populated by shameless people.
The PDP said APC leaders in Ondo should cover their faces with shame.
But at an emergency meeting yesterday, the APC condemned in strong terms such thoughts and plans to instigate political upheaval and create disaffection among the people.
It argued that Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu had been discharging his duties and responsibilities without any hitch, irrespective of his location.
The party expressed appreciation to the people for their understanding and prayers for the governor.
“We are very optimistic that our Governor; your performing Governor, will be in our midst in a matter of days,” the party assured.
The statement read: ”It is imperative to state that any political gathering or activity at this time could easily be hijacked beyond the control and capacity of the organizers.
“We therefore call on security agencies to be vigilant and ensure that every gathering is well-guided, and closely monitored for compliance.
“The party is confident that the APC-led government in Ondo State will continue to invest in projects that have direct bearings on the welfare of the public. We will also not relax our commitment to the State workforce. “
But the PDP publicity secretary, Hon. Ikandu Peretei, said, “The governor has been absent from his duty post since April this year, “yet they are comfortable with the total collapse of governance in the state
“The governor has not been seen in the state since April this year. The PDP is known for its peaceful and developmental strides in the state. We cannot be accused of planning to create a crisis in the state.
“It is clear that APC is afraid of their shadows having failed to meet the expectations of the people.
“If they know where Akeredolu is, they should ask him to come out or resign honourable,” he said.