Ogun APC members protest imposition, demand primaries

Members of the All Progressives Congress in Ijebu East Local Government Area on Wednesday staged a protest at the Governor’s Office, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta, rejecting what they described as attempts to impose candidates for the House of Representatives and House of Assembly ahead of the 2027 elections.

The protesters insisted that any candidate representing the federal constituency must emerge through a credible primary election in line with existing zoning arrangements.

Party members expressed dissatisfaction over what they termed a growing pattern of marginalising Ijebu East in the distribution of political offices within the constituency, which comprises Ijebu North, Ijebu East, and Ogun Waterside.

They alleged that the House of Representatives seat has been dominated by candidates from another local government for over a decade, warning that any move to extend such dominance would be resisted.

Speaking during the protest, Adewale Adeboye, popularly known as Jarrow, said, “We are not here for anything other than fairness. For about 12 years now, the House of Representatives has been occupied by the Ijebu North Local Government.

“There are indications it may be extended to 16 years. That is not acceptable to us. It is our turn, and that must be respected.”

Adeboye warned the party leadership against imposing candidates, noting that such actions could cost the party electoral support.

“We lost in the past because candidates were imposed on us. We don’t want a repeat of that. Let the people decide. Let there be primaries where consensus fails, that is the position of the party’s constitution, not imposition,” he said.

He also raised concerns over alleged plans to impose a candidate for the House of Assembly seat, insisting that both positions must reflect equity, competence, and broad acceptance.

Responding on behalf of the government, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Oluwatoyin Taiwo, urged calm, stressing that the party operates within established constitutional guidelines.

“I have listened to your concerns, as party members, you should understand that there are established procedures for selecting candidates. The party constitution is clear on this, and decisions are not made arbitrarily,” he said.

Taiwo described the allegations as unverified and advised members to rely on credible information while engaging party structures rather than resorting to protests.

“You must be sure of your sources. Not everything you hear is accurate. However, your concerns have been noted, and I can assure you they will be communicated to the governor,” he added.

Despite the assurances, the protesters maintained that their action was necessary to draw attention to what they described as ongoing political manoeuvres, insisting they would monitor developments closely.

“All we want is a fair process that allows party members to choose their candidates. That is the only way forward,” Adeboye said.