Aspirants under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Ibadan North Federal Constituency have raised strong objections to what they describe as the imposition of a candidate ahead of the forthcoming bye-election.
The aspirants, under the umbrella of the United Ibadan North Federal Constituency Aspirants Forum, have called for immediate intervention from the national leadership of the party to avert the crisis and uphold internal democracy.
At a press conference held in Ibadan on Monday, the aspirants condemned the alleged imposition of Adewale Olatunji Murphy as the party’s flagbearer by the National Working Committee (NWC), led by former acting chairman, Ali Bukar Dalori, in collaboration with the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu.
In a unified stance, the aspirants asserted that no primary election was conducted, describing the move as a violation of the APC constitution and the Electoral Act.
They further warned that the development could jeopardise the party’s chances in the bye-election and plunge the Oyo State chapter into deeper internal conflict.
“This imposition is a clear disregard for democratic principles and the rule of law. We, the aspirants, stand firmly against it,” the group stated.
The forum disclosed that, in contrast to the alleged imposition, they had unanimously agreed on Hon. Khalil Mustapa Repete as a consensus candidate through a transparent and inclusive process. They maintained that Repete remains the best candidate to represent the people of Ibadan North Federal Constituency.
Calling on the party hierarchy to do the right thing, the group issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the national leadership of the APC to address the matter and restore due process.
“If this injustice is not addressed within 48 hours, responsibility for any fallout in the party’s performance will rest squarely on the NWC, Minister Adelabu, and other complicit stakeholders,” the aspirants warned.
They further drew parallels to the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who they said subjected himself to internal party primaries rather than relying on imposition.
The group had initially planned a solidarity rally but opted instead for a press conference, hoping that the presidency and party leadership would hear their plea and intervene promptly.
They also expressed appreciation for ongoing efforts by peace advocates and party stakeholders working to mediate the crisis and prevent further disunity within the APC.
“We pray for truthful, inclusive, and harmonious reconciliation. We remain committed to the ideals of democracy and the rule of law,” the forum concluded.
The Ibadan North Federal Constituency bye-election follows a vacancy created earlier this year. The outcome of the APC’s candidate selection process is expected to play a crucial role in the party’s ability to retain the seat.
