The party described the claims as false and misleading, insisting that no final decision has been made regarding the selection of candidates for elective positions.

Speaking on Thursday, the APC State Publicity Secretary, Aaron Artimas, said the process of selecting consensus candidates is still ongoing and has not been concluded.

He explained that all procedures would be carried out in line with the party’s internal democratic guidelines.

According to him, Governor Kefas had set up three consensus committees across the state’s senatorial districts to engage stakeholders and ensure a transparent and peaceful selection process ahead of the elections.

Artimas added that the committees are tasked with reconciling interests, addressing concerns, and strengthening unity within the party before any final decisions are reached.

He noted that the committees have not completed their work and have yet to submit any official recommendations for approval by the party leadership.

The APC spokesman urged members and the public to ignore rumours suggesting that automatic tickets had already been handed to serving lawmakers.

He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, and due process in choosing candidates for the 2027 elections.

Artimas further stated that the APC would continue to follow established procedures to prevent internal disputes and ensure that all stakeholders are properly represented in the decision-making process.

Meanwhile, there is growing tension in parts of Ondo State over the reported movement of suspected political thugs ahead of the APC primaries scheduled to begin this week.

The situation has raised fears of possible violence, following similar disruptions during recent party congresses in the state.

The APC has scheduled its House of Representatives primary for Thursday, while Senate and House of Assembly primaries are set for May 18 and 20 respectively.

Tensions reportedly escalated after disagreements between Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and some National Assembly members over alleged plans to deny certain aspirants return tickets.

Party sources said the crisis worsened after the APC national leadership rejected a consensus list reportedly supported by the governor and insisted on direct primaries.

The governor was said to be opposed to the direct primary arrangement.

Residents in several communities, including Owo, Akure, Idanre, Irele, Okitipupa, and Akoko South-West, have expressed concern over the influx of unfamiliar individuals ahead of the primaries.

A resident of Irele called on security agencies to increase surveillance to prevent any breakdown of law and order.