By OLA MODUPE, Ibadan –
No fewer than 9 aspirants vying for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket in Ibadan North Federal Constituency have rejected the party’s primary election outcome, citing irregularities and manipulation.
The aspirants, in a communique addressed to the APC National Secretariat in Abuja, expressed concerns over the absence of a delegates’ congress, which they deemed a constitutional prerequisite for conducting valid primaries.
The primary election, held on Sunday, was marred by allegations of manipulation, violence, and open confrontation among aspirants and party leaders.
One of the leading aspirants, Idris Lapade, a former chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, was allegedly assaulted by another aspirant, sparking tensions and chaos.
The aggrieved aspirants are demanding for a transparent, inclusive, and constitutionally compliant primary election in Ibadan North.
They urged the APC National Working Committee to uphold internal democracy by ensuring credible elections.
They also called for fairness and transparency in the upcoming constituency by-election process.
The crisis has raised concerns about the party’s internal democracy and its ability to present a united front ahead of future elections. If not addressed, the party’s factionalization and lack of cohesion may weaken its electoral fortunes in the state.
The aspirants have vowed to challenge the outcome through petitioning the national party leadership.
