Nigeria, April 29 -- Speaking in an interview with Arise News, monitored by The News Chronicle, Ajose said his decision to enter the race is rooted in a desire to give voice to communities he claims have been sidelined for 57 years.

He also criticised the party's consensus arrangement, arguing that though constitutional, it undermines internal democracy when multiple aspirants are in the race but one is quietly favoured as the "preferred" candidate.

Ajose revealed that his nomination form was financed through contributions from supporters, which he said reflects strong grassroots confidence in his leadership capacity and empathy-driven agenda.

He further maintained that no formal directive has been issued by APC leadership, at either ...