By John Dike, Osogbo
Amid growing public curiosity and internal party discussions regarding the zoning of the governorship ticket ahead of the 2026 elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has called for calm, stressing that the final decision rests solely with the party leadership.
Chief Kola Olabisi, APC spokesperson, in an interview, clarified that no official directive has yet been issued regarding zoning, adding that speculation circulating within political circles remains unverified.
He described zoning as a sensitive matter requiring careful consideration of interests, equity, and overall party strategy—factors that only the national leadership is empowered to weigh and harmonize.
His words, “Currently, there’s no information about the zoning of the governorship ticket at my disposal.
“It is the leadership of the party that will decide the best option that would be beneficial for the party. We should all tarry and patiently await the decision of the party in that regard.”
He further explained that decisions of such magnitude must take into account party unity, electoral realities, and the need to present a candidate capable of garnering broad support across all political blocs.
Responding to speculation that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may have shown preference for any particular aspirant, Olabisi dismissed the claims as unfounded.
He said, “It is currently beyond the scope of my knowledge to know whether the President has an interest in a particular aspirant.
“I think it is logical to find out from the President himself, as there’s no art to read another man’s mind on the face.”
He noted that political discourse often becomes fertile ground for rumours and assumptions, particularly in a pre-election atmosphere.
“Such information, to the best of my understanding, remains within the realm of speculation. When we get to the river, we shall devise a suitable means of crossing it,” Olabisi added.
He urged party members, supporters, and aspirants to refrain from actions or statements that could create tension or undermine internal cohesion. He emphasized that only a united, disciplined party can successfully navigate the upcoming political season.
Olabisi warned against premature endorsements, factional alignments, and divisive rhetoric, stressing that the APC’s electoral success hinges on collective focus rather than individual ambitions.
As leadership deliberations continue, stakeholders and the public await official communication from the APC hierarchy, which will determine the direction and structure of the governorship race.
Speculation is rife that President Tinubu opposes the conduct of primaries.
But observers note that Tinubu himself is a product of a presidential primary election, which he contested and won.
Also, they say that his political journey reflects a consistent respect for democratic processes, and it is expected that he will support whatever decision is deemed beneficial for the party.
“President Tinubu is a democrat of repute who has demonstrated commitment to due process throughout his political career. Whatever decision advances the interests of the APC is what he will embrace,” party sources said.
