Senator Jide Ipinsagba, who represents Ondo North Senatorial District, has refuted claims suggesting that lawmakers under the All Progressives Congress (APC) will automatically secure return tickets to contest in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking to journalists in Akure on Monday, Senator Ipinsagba firmly denied that any such agreement had been made by the party leadership. He described the circulating reports as mere speculation and emphasized that no official decision had been documented or communicated.
“As a procedural person, anything that is not written, I don’t believe in it. It’s an insinuation,” Ipinsagba said. “People are thinking ahead of things. Well, if it is the thought of the people, who am I to fault it? But there is no place where such a decision was taken.”
The senator, who currently chairs the Senate Committee on Public Procurement, reiterated that any assumption about automatic tickets is unfounded. He stressed that candidacy decisions within the APC would be determined based on party guidelines and due processes when the time comes.
In addition to addressing the political rumors, Senator Ipinsagba reaffirmed his commitment to delivering quality representation to the people of Ondo North. He highlighted ongoing efforts to attract federal projects and investment to the district, particularly in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
“My constituents remain my top priority,” he stated. “I’m for its development. We have made strides in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, but there is still more work to be done, coupled with the already ongoing ones.”
The senator also discussed legislative initiatives he is currently spearheading. He expressed optimism that a bill he sponsored, proposing the establishment of an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) University in Ikare-Akoko, would soon receive full legislative approval.
According to him, the proposed university is aimed at addressing educational gaps in the region and improving access to technology-driven learning. He emphasized that the project would not only serve Ondo North but would also provide educational opportunities to surrounding communities.
Turning to infrastructural challenges, Senator Ipinsagba acknowledged the poor condition of federal roads within the senatorial district. He assured residents that he would continue to push for federal government intervention to improve the transportation network.
“We will continue to lobby for federal intervention on road repairs,” Ipinsagba said. He noted that better roads would significantly impact the region’s economic activities and access to essential services.
When asked about the recent proposal for the creation of a new state named Ose, which has already passed its first reading in the House of Representatives, the senator responded cautiously. He confirmed that the matter would be thoroughly debated once it reaches the Senate.
“The bill is still in its early stages,” he explained. “When it comes to the Senate, we will engage in robust discussions and ensure that the people’s interests are represented.”
Senator Ipinsagba maintained that while the process of state creation is complex and requires broad consensus, he remains open to the dialogue and will prioritize the needs and aspirations of his constituents during deliberations.
As discussions surrounding the 2027 elections continue to emerge within Nigeria’s political landscape, the senator’s comments serve as a reminder that party procedures and democratic processes remain central to candidate selection. His remarks also signal a broader intention among some lawmakers to focus on governance and development rather than premature campaign speculation.
Despite rising political tensions and internal maneuvering across different parties, Senator Ipinsagba’s stance reinforces the principle that no political position is guaranteed, and every aspirant must earn their ticket through transparent and accountable mechanisms within their party structures.
