Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State on Saturday joined members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ward 3, Ikenne Local Government Area to participate in the primary election to choose the party’s candidate for the House of Representatives election scheduled to hold in 2027.
Speaking after participating in the exercise, Dapo Abiodun lauded the peaceful conduct of the primary, describing it as a reflection of the party’s orderly and well-organised structure.
According to him, although there were minor logistical hitches, the overall conduct of the exercise was commendable as officials rose to the occasion.
“We are here for the Sagamu, Ikenne and Remo North Federal Constituency primary election.
“I arrived here about 15 to 20 minutes ago and met party faithful already gathered to exercise their franchise.
“The exercise started a bit late because some logistics arrived behind schedule, but I must commend the party members for their patience.
“Everything has been calm, peaceful and orderly. There has been no violence or rancour.
“Everything went smoothly as members of the ward queued peacefully behind the aspirant of their choice, who is Hon. Mrs. Funmilayo Efuwape.
“The Returning Officer first carried out accreditation by checking our party membership cards before voting commenced through the queue system behind the candidate’s poster,” the governor stated.
Governor Abiodun further noted that despite the harsh weather conditions, party members remained committed and exercised their franchise, a development he said demonstrated their loyalty, reliability and dedication to the party.
He explained that the exercise marked the beginning of a series of primary elections scheduled for the coming days.
He noted that the Senate primary would hold on Monday, the State House of Assembly primary on Wednesday, the governorship primary on Thursday, and the presidential primary on Saturday.
While acknowledging the noticeable logistical setbacks experienced during the exercise, the governor assured party members that necessary corrections would be made ahead of subsequent primaries.
“I want to thank the Returning Officers, Electoral Officers, members of INEC and law enforcement personnel who ensured peace and order throughout the process.
“I also appreciate everyone involved in conducting this exercise.
“It has been transparent, peaceful and inclusive. This is how we want the All Progressives Congress to be defined,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the Returning Officer for the federal constituency primary, Tpl. Christopher Olusegun, disclosed that the process commenced with the accreditation of 617 members out of over 1,000 registered party members in the ward.
He explained that the open queue voting system was adopted, with members lining up behind the poster of their preferred aspirant.
He added that all 617 accredited members voted for Funmilayo Efuwape, who emerged victorious at the end of the exercise.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
