Senator Nicholas Tofowomo, a former representative of Ondo South Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate, expressed his discontent with the current state of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State following their loss in the last governorship election. He attributed the loss to the mismanagement of the campaign by the party’s candidate, Agboola Ajayi. Tofowomo revealed that he had offered strategic advice to Ajayi, suggesting the formation of committees involving local leaders to strategize on fundraising, campaigning, and addressing critical issues affecting the state’s populace. However, Ajayi failed to heed his counsel, ultimately resulting in a flawed campaign strategy. Tofowomo highlighted examples of effective campaign strategies from his experience working with former Governor Mimiko, such as the impactful bus shuttle initiative and focus on grassroot engagement that targeted and resonated with citizens effectively. He lamented the lack of such a focused approach in Ajayi’s campaign.
Tofowomo refuted claims that he distanced himself from the election and the party due to Ajayi’s disregard for his advice. He affirmed his loyalty to the PDP, stating that he congratulated Ajayi on winning the primary and pledged his support. However, Ajayi subsequently sidelined him for four months, prompting Tofowomo to publicly express his dissatisfaction. While Ajayi eventually apologized and sought Tofowomo’s input, he failed to implement the recommended strategies, further alienating the senator and contributing to the party’s electoral defeat. Tofowomo emphasized the importance of unity and inclusivity within the party, citing how Ajayi’s actions divided his town and ultimately drove key figures like former Governor Mimiko and over 100 leaders to leave the party due to dismissive treatment.
Despite his grievances, Tofowomo denied working against the PDP during the election, maintaining that he merely remained neutral and refrained from actively participating in the campaign. He challenged anyone with evidence to the contrary to present it, asserting that working against one’s own party would be immoral. Shifting his focus to the national level, Tofowomo addressed the PDP’s ongoing discussions about a potential coalition with Atiku Abubakar, contrasting this with the stance of some governors who prioritize preparations for the 2027 elections. He argued that a coalition is necessary to broaden the party’s reach and address the political landscape, particularly given the emergence of influential figures like Peter Obi, Bola Tinubu, and Rabiu Kwankwaso. He criticized the governors who oppose the coalition, suggesting they are intimidated and failing to acknowledge the party’s weaknesses revealed by recent election results.
Tofowomo maintained that the PDP in Ondo State remains active, holding regular meetings and still representing a significant political force. He stressed the importance of strong leadership within the party to regain power in future elections. He believed that a capable chairman, capable of uniting and motivating members, is crucial for the party’s success, drawing parallels to the effective leadership of Clement Faboyede which saw the party win two Senate seats and 3 House of Representative seats. He expressed concerns about internal conflicts within the party, particularly regarding the selection of a new chairman, where he observed that some members from the southern senatorial district were advocating for a northern candidate, despite the south never having held the position of Board of Trustees (BOT) member in the party’s history.
Tofowomo emphasized the need for fairness and equity within the party, advocating for the Elders Committee to intervene and ensure a just selection process. He underscored the strategic importance of the southern senatorial district for the PDP in Ondo State, highlighting their consistent electoral contributions and cautioning against actions that could alienate this crucial voter base. He reiterated his commitment to the PDP, stating his intention to remain with the party despite the internal challenges.
Tofowomo also disclosed that he has faced pressure to defect to other parties, acknowledging that he is seen as a valuable political asset. He firmly rejected these overtures, considering such a move to be an act of betrayal against the PDP who sponsored his senatorial bid. He condemned the practice of politicians defecting to the ruling party after being elected under a different platform, deeming it unethical and a betrayal of the people’s mandate. He shared a personal anecdote about a near-death experience to underscore the importance of integrity and accountability in one’s actions, suggesting that there can be unseen consequences for betraying the trust placed in elected officials. Finally, he expressed his willingness to return to the Senate if the people of his constituency desire his representation, indicating that he remains active in politics and open to future opportunities to serve.
