Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and frontline governorship aspirant, Tunde Lemo, has described the successful conduct of the Ogun State All Progressives Congress (APC) State Congress as a masterclass in “democracy at work.”

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, Lemo commended the peaceful atmosphere that marked the event, which saw the re-election of Chief Yemi Sanusi and 35 other members to lead the party’s State Executive Committee for another four-year term.

The congress, attended by Governor Dapo Abiodun and 1,180 delegates, featured a voice affirmation process supervised by the APC Congress Committee Chairman, Chief Wale Ohu, alongside officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Lemo said the absence of internal discord reflected the party’s growing strength as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.

“You see APC, the largest party in Nigeria, as one big family. There was affirmation because they all did well. I’m so happy INEC was there to witness the cohesion in the party. This is what it will take to win the 2027 election, by the grace of God, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

When asked whether his ambition to succeed Governor Abiodun in 2027 remains intact, Lemo offered a brief but firm response: “By the grace of God.”

Despite confirming his personal aspiration, he emphasised party unity over individual ambition. He referenced a recent appeal for peace by fellow aspirant, Senator Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), urging members to avoid internal attacks.

“My advice is that we should be one big family. The mandate will only go to one person, and all of us will rally round whoever deservedly gets it,” Lemo stated, expressing confidence that a united APC would secure a “resounding victory” in Ogun State.

The congress ratified key appointments to steer the party’s machinery, including Chief Yemi Sanusi as State Chairman, Prince Aderibigbe Tella as State Secretary, Alhaja Aminat Adigun as State Women Leader, and Chief Yemi Adelani as State Organising Secretary.

With the new executive committee firmly in place, political observers view the congress as the formal kickoff to the 2027 governorship race, with Lemo positioning himself as a consensus-driven contender within the party’s structure.