By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

Former Acting Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Kayode Oladele, has commended the adoption of a consensus arrangement by the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a strategic move capable of reinforcing party unity, deepening internal democracy and ensuring stability ahead of future elections.

Oladele, who represented Ogun State on the FCC, stated this while reviewing the outcome of a recent APC caucus meeting held in Abeokuta.

According to him, the consensus approach reflects mature leadership and deliberate efforts to reduce internal rancour within the ruling party.

“Democracy goes beyond the mere casting of ballots; it must also accommodate dialogue, compromise and collective decision-making,” he said.

He noted that consensus fosters inclusiveness and strengthens party cohesion.

“Consensus encourages broader consultation, shared ownership of decisions and the emergence of candidates with wide acceptance. It also helps to minimize tension, financial strain and post-primary litigations that have weakened political parties in the past,” Oladele added.

He stressed that by avoiding divisive primary contests, the APC is better positioned to approach elections as a united and focused political force.

The former lawmaker commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as steady and inclusive leadership within the party.

“I sincerely thank Mr President for fostering an atmosphere of unity, consultation and clear direction in the APC. His leadership example continues to guide the party,” he said.

Oladele also praised Dapo Abiodun for his disposition and commitment to party cohesion, as well as elder statesman, Chief Olusegun Osoba for his enduring role in shaping progressive politics in the state.

He further acknowledged the contributions of former governors and serving senator, Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, noting that their involvement underscored political maturity and a shared commitment to the development of Ogun State.

Oladele particularly lauded the Ogun State APC caucus for adopting Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as the party’s consensus governorship candidate for the 2027 general elections.

“This decision reflects careful thinking, balance and a genuine commitment to the future of Ogun State,” he said, noting that the move also addresses long-standing concerns of inclusion by offering Ogun West the opportunity to produce the state’s governor.

“For years, Ogun West has not occupied the governorship seat, not due to lack of capable leaders, but due to how political events unfolded. Today, we have an opportunity to correct that imbalance,” Oladele added.

He described the unity displayed by stakeholders in Ogun West as a sign of political maturity, adding that Senator Adeola’s track record in infrastructure and human development inspires confidence in his leadership capacity.

Oladele urged other political parties to embrace consensus-building mechanisms to curb internal crises and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic culture, reiterating that President Tinubu remains a central unifying figure in the country’s democratic governance and national development trajectory.