The All Progressives Congress, APC, House of Representatives primaries in Ekiti State have come to a close, producing winners across various federal constituencies while also leaving room for contestations and further clarifications in some areas.
From the results officially announced, Hon. Fatoba Olusola emerged victorious in Ado-Irepodun Federal Constituency, while Hon. Karounwi Oladapo secured the mandate for Ijero, Ekiti West, and Efon Federal Constituency. In Ekiti East, Emure, and Gbonyin Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Femi Bamisile once again demonstrated his political strength and grassroots acceptance by clinching the party’s ticket.
Similarly, Hon. Toyin Okoro was declared winner for Ikere, Ekiti South West, and Ise-Orun Federal Constituency, while Hon. Kunle Ibrahim Olarewaju emerged as the candidate for Ilejemeje, Ido-Osi, and Moba Federal Constituency.
However, the situation in Oye-Ikole Federal Constituency (Ekiti North) remains unresolved, as the contest between Hon. Akin Rotimi and Hon. Bimbo Daramola has been declared inconclusive, signalling the need for further electoral processes or party intervention to determine a clear winner.
In a significant development, Hon. Akinlayo Davison Kolawole, the member representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency II, has strongly rejected the purported results announced for the constituency. He described the outcome as unacceptable, alleging irregularities and questioning the credibility of the process conducted by the returning officer. According to him, the exercise did not reflect the true will of party members and was marred by actions inconsistent with democratic principles.
Hon. Akinlayo reaffirmed his commitment to justice, fairness, and due process, insisting that the mandate freely given by the people must not be subverted. He called on the party leadership and relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the conduct of the primary and ensure that the right thing is done in the interest of democracy and the integrity of the APC.
This development underscores the importance of transparency, internal democracy, and credibility in party primaries. As the APC prepares for the general elections, it is imperative that all grievances are addressed promptly and fairly to foster unity and strengthen the party’s chances at the polls.
The voice of the people must remain supreme, and every legitimate vote must count.