Barrister D.I. Kekemeke has been re-elected as National Vice Chairman at his party’s zonal convention, a move party leaders say reflects confidence in his leadership ahead of future political activities.

Chief Alexander Oluremi Ajipe, a senior party figure, described the decision as a “resounding show of trust” in Kekemeke’s ability to manage party affairs at both zonal and national levels.

Why it matters

The Re-election comes at a crucial time as political parties in Nigeria begin early positioning ahead of future elections.

Analysts say leadership stability within party structures often plays a key role in candidate selection, internal cohesion, and electoral success.

Ajipe: ‘A collective affirmation of leadership’

In a statement, Chief Ajipe said Kekemeke’s return to the role reflects his track record and strategic direction.

“This re-election is not just a personal triumph but a collective affirmation of Barr. Kekemeke’s unwavering commitment, strategic vision, and ability to unite stakeholders for the progress of our great party,” he said.

Ajipe, who is also Convener of the Ibi Giga socio-political group and a member of the Governing Council of the University of Ibadan, added that Kekemeke has consistently demonstrated leadership capacity.

Call for party unity

Ajipe urged party members to support the reappointed vice chairman, stressing the importance of unity.

“Barr. Kekemeke’s track record speaks volumes. He has consistently shown the capacity to navigate challenges and deliver results, making him the ideal steward for our party’s national affairs.”

Political observers say such endorsements from influential figures may help consolidate internal support within the party’s ranks.

Broader political context

Party conventions in Nigeria often serve as platforms for leadership consolidation and strategic alignment.

Experts note that zonal leadership positions, such as National Vice Chairman, play a critical role in mobilising grassroots support and coordinating regional interests within national party frameworks.

What’s next

Kekemeke is expected to focus on strengthening party unity across the zone and preparing structures for upcoming political contests.

Observers say his ability to manage internal dynamics and maintain cohesion will be closely watched in the months ahead.

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has congratulated Isaac Kekemeke on his re-election as the South-West National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The re-election took place during the party’s zonal congress held in Lagos, where delegates from across the region endorsed Kekemeke through a consensus process.

Smooth Congress Draws Praise

A total of 1,398 delegates from the six South-West states gathered at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena for the exercise, which party leaders described as peaceful and orderly.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said the unanimous decision reflected confidence in Kekemeke’s leadership over the past four years.

“The unanimous return of Kekemeke is a testament to his leadership that has transformed the party in the zone,” he said.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the congress as evidence of internal democracy and discipline within the party.

“This event is a testament to the party’s internal democracy, discipline, and commitment to orderly political processes,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Why It Matters

The APC remains a dominant political force in Nigeria’s South-West, a region seen as critical to national elections.

Political analysts say peaceful internal processes such as this congress may strengthen party cohesion ahead of future electoral contests, including governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states.

Sanwo-Olu added that the conduct of the congress reflects adherence to electoral laws and party regulations.

“The South-West zone remains the most formidable, forward-looking and exemplary region of the party,” he said.

Party Leaders Stress Unity and Strategy

Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu congratulated the newly elected executives and expressed confidence in their leadership.

APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, represented by Youth Leader Dayo Israel, praised members for their dedication and turnout.

He commended members who travelled across the region and attributed the success of the congress to “divine providence”.

In his remarks, Kekemeke described the congress as historic and praised the organisation of the event.

He urged members to continue setting a precedent in party conduct across Nigeria.

What’s Next for APC South-West

In his acceptance speech, Kekemeke outlined key priorities for the new executive.

These include securing the re-election of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji and supporting APC’s push to win Osun State in the 2026 governorship election.

The congress committee chairman, Jide Jimoh, confirmed that representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) monitored the process.

He said the exercise complied with all legal and regulatory requirements.

Full List of Elected Executives

The following officials were elected through consensus:

Isaac Kekemeke – Zonal Vice Chairman

Alfred Aluko – Zonal Secretary

Ismail Majekodunmi – Legal Adviser

Lateef Ibirogba – Publicity Secretary

Ayobami Afolabi – Organising Secretary

Daramola Adesuyi – Youth Leader

Dayo Insha – Leader for Persons with Disabilities

Several positions were uncontested after internal screening.

Broader Political Context

The congress was attended by several prominent APC figures, including Governors Dapo Abiodun and Biodun Oyebanji, alongside lawmakers, ministers, and party stakeholders.

Observers say the high turnout and consensus approach signal efforts by the APC to maintain unity within its South-West stronghold.

Industry & Public Perspective

Political observers note that consensus-based leadership selection, while promoting unity, may also limit internal competition.

However, supporters argue it reduces factional disputes and strengthens party structure ahead of elections.

A group of constituents in Ondo North Senatorial District has accused Senator Jide Ipinsagba of being disconnected from the people, alleging weak grassroots engagement and poor political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

What the statement says

In a strongly worded statement, the group claimed the senator’s political strength had declined since the death of Rotimi Akeredolu, whom they described as instrumental to his rise.

They alleged that Senator Ipinsagba now lacks the capacity to mobilise significant support within the constituency.

“Today, bereft of genuine grassroots backing, he lacks the mobilization capacity to rally even 1,000 constituents toward a viable 2027 electoral victory,” the statement said.

The group further criticised what it described as the senator’s focus on political lobbying outside the district, particularly in Abuja and Lagos.

Claims of party influence and ticket battle

The statement also alleged that the lawmaker was seeking support from Opeyemi Bamidele to secure his party’s ticket for the next election cycle.

According to the group, this reflects internal tensions within the All Progressives Congress (APC), despite the party controlling both the state and federal structures.

“In an APC-led state under an APC Governor, it is regrettable that a serving incumbent must rely on a nonexistent ‘automatic ticket’,” the statement added.

Why it matters

The development highlights growing political divisions within Ondo North, a key senatorial district in Ondo State, ahead of the 2027 elections.

Analysts say such internal disputes could shape party primaries and influence voter sentiment, especially in a region where grassroots mobilisation plays a decisive role.

Political observers note that accusations of disconnect between elected officials and constituents are increasingly becoming a defining issue in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Public sentiment and political stakes

The group insisted that voters in Ondo North are becoming more politically aware and less willing to support candidates without visible performance.

“Ondo North’s electorate is resolute and discerning. We will unite behind authentic representatives who prioritize our needs, rejecting any imposition,” the statement said.

They also criticised what they described as years of “underwhelming performance”, signalling a possible shift in voter expectations.

What’s next

With the 2027 elections still some distance away, political alignments within the APC and across opposition parties are expected to intensify.

Stakeholders say the coming months will test the senator’s ability to rebuild trust, strengthen local alliances, and demonstrate tangible impact in his constituency.

As of the time of filing this report, Senator Ipinsagba has not publicly responded to the allegations.

Industry / Expert perspective

Political analysts say early criticisms like this often signal deeper intra-party competition rather than purely public dissatisfaction.

They add that incumbency advantage in Nigeria can quickly erode without sustained grassroots engagement and visible constituency projects.