Ondo APC Youths Reject Attempt to Overturn Akoko East/West Primary Result

By Dayo Johnson

The Akoko South-East/Akoko South-West Youth Vanguard in Ondo State has warned that there are plans to overturn the result of the APC primary that elected Victor Ategbole as the party’s candidate.

In a statement signed by Odunayo Ariyo, the group called on President Bola Tinubu, APC chieftain Bisi Akande, and the party’s National Working Committee to step in and ensure that the democratic will of party members is upheld.

Ariyo alleged that coordinated efforts were underway to impose automatic tickets and reverse the primary outcome. He noted that Ategbole secured 12,011 votes, while incumbent lawmaker Hon. Adegboyega Adefarati received 1,965 votes.

He added that Ategbole had completed the screening exercise, was cleared to contest, and was never formally notified of any disqualification before or during the process.

“Any attempts to introduce claims of disqualification after the conduct of the election were inconsistent with constitutional provisions, party guidelines, and the principles of fair hearing,” the statement read.

The group cited Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution and Article 21.4 of the APC Constitution, which guarantee a fair hearing and the right to appeal.

It said the primary was conducted peacefully under the supervision of party officials, with Returning Officer Hon. Akin Aibinuommo declaring Ategbole the winner.

“The result announced by the Returning Officer reflected the genuine wishes of delegates, party members, and stakeholders across the federal constituency. Any move to reverse the outcome could deepen divisions within the party ahead of future electoral contests,” the statement added.

Describing the situation as a threat to internal democracy, the youths warned that reversing the result could further split the party.

They urged the APC leadership to resist external pressure and uphold the will of party members.

The disqualification of aspirants on the day of the primaries has heightened political tension within the party in the state.

Party stakeholders continue to consult over the legitimacy of the primary election and the eventual emergence of the party’s candidate for the federal constituency.

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