A political analyst and APC stakeholder, Elder Adigun Otaomokunola, has raised concerns over the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for Ekiti North Federal Constituency II, warning that unresolved grievances could affect the party’s electoral fortunes ahead of key elections in the state.
In an opinion article released on Monday, Mr Otaomokunola questioned the outcome of the primary that produced former Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives), Hon. Ibrahim Olarenwaju, as the party’s candidate for the constituency.
The analyst argued that the result had generated debate among party members and supporters, particularly when compared with the political standing of the incumbent lawmaker, Hon. Akinlayo Davidson Kolawole, who currently represents the constituency in the House of Representatives.
According to Mr Otaomokunola, Hon. Kolawole enjoys significant grassroots support and has built political goodwill through constituency projects, empowerment programmes and legislative activities.
He recalled that during the APC primary ahead of the 2023 general election, Hon. Kolawole defeated Hon. Olarenwaju for the party’s ticket, a development he said reflected the preference of party members at the time.
The analyst also stressed the importance of legislative continuity, arguing that experienced lawmakers often gain strategic influence through committee assignments, parliamentary networks and the ability to attract federal projects to their constituencies.
He expressed concern that replacing a serving lawmaker at a stage when he has gained legislative experience could affect representation for the constituency.
Mr Otaomokunola further alleged irregularities in the conduct of the primary election, including concerns over vote counting, result collation and the role of electoral officials involved in the exercise.
The APC has not publicly responded to the specific allegations contained in the article, and this newspaper could not independently verify the claims at the time of filing this report.
The concerns come as political activities intensify ahead of the Ekiti governorship election scheduled for 20 June 2026 and the 2027 general election.
Mr Otaomokunola warned that internal disputes arising from contentious primaries could discourage party mobilisation and create divisions within the APC’s support base if not properly addressed.
He urged the national leadership of the party to review complaints arising from the exercise and take steps to reassure members of its commitment to internal democracy.
The analyst specifically called on President Bola Tinubu and the APC National Working Committee to investigate concerns raised by stakeholders and ensure that party processes remain transparent and credible.
He argued that the party’s ability to manage internal disputes fairly would play a significant role in maintaining confidence among members ahead of future elections.
As discussions over the primary continue, political observers say the development highlights the growing importance of internal party democracy in determining electoral stability and party cohesion across the country.
