A group of aspirants under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ona-Ara Local Government has strongly rejected the alleged imposition of a consensus candidate for the Oyo State House of Assembly, Ona-Ara Constituency, describing the move as undemocratic and detrimental to the growth and unity of the party.
The aspirants, including Hon. Oladapo Amos (popularly known as “Amos Ona-Ara”), Hon. Oluranti Adesina Adebayo, Ife Ona-Ara, and other committed party stakeholders, expressed deep concern over what they described as a deliberate sidelining of due process, transparency, and inclusiveness in the selection process.
In a joint statement made available to the public, the aspirants emphasized that transparency and constituency development must take precedence over personal interests and political favoritism.
“Democracy is anchored on fairness, openness, and the active participation of all stakeholders.
Any attempt to impose a candidate without due consultation undermines these principles and weakens the foundation of our party,” the statement read.
They noted that the alleged consensus arrangement failed to reflect the collective will of party members and the people of Ona-Ara, warning that such practices could lead to internal divisions, loss of trust, and reduced electoral strength for the PDP in the 2027 general elections.
According to the aspirants, the people of Ona-Ara deserve credible and capable representation that emerges through a transparent and competitive process, not through imposition.
They further highlighted the consequences of abandoning democratic norms, which include:
★ Deepening internal party conflicts and factionalization
★ Discouraging credible aspirants from participating in the political process
★Weakening public confidence in democratic institutions
★ Hindering effective representation and sustainable constituency development
The aspirants stressed that Ona-Ara Local Government cannot afford to sacrifice its developmental prospects for narrow political interests, adding that only a legitimate and widely accepted candidate can effectively address the pressing needs of the constituency.
They, therefore, called on the leadership of the PDP in Oyo State, as well as all relevant stakeholders, to uphold the party’s constitution and ensure a level playing field for all aspirants.
“We urge all party leaders to place the collective interest of Ona-Ara above individual ambitions.
The future of our constituency depends on credible leadership that emerges through a free, fair, and transparent process,” they stated.
Reaffirming their loyalty to the PDP, the aspirants maintained that their stance is not an act of rebellion but a principled call for justice, equity, and adherence to democratic values.
They concluded by appealing for calm among party members while encouraging continued engagement and unity, anchored on fairness and mutual respect.