By Samuel Sunday
Aspirants contesting the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives primary in Federal Constituency I, comprising Ado and Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Areas, have said they enjoy strong grassroots backing following ward-level voting exercises held across Ekiti State.
Speaking to journalists after the exercise at Ward 8 in Ado-Ekiti, Dr. Yemi Olayinka said the turnout demonstrated residents’ resolve to participate despite alleged intimidation.
“What we have done today is defeat unnecessary and undue intimidation. We want to make it clear that we belong to this state together. I grew up here. Nobody can intimidate us,” Olayinka said.
He added that some supporters were discouraged from attending and that threats were allegedly made, but said the decision of members to come out and vote represented a victory for the process.
Another aspirant, Hon. Steve Fatoba, described the exercise as peaceful and said the turnout reflected his acceptance within the ward and the wider constituency.
“The show of love from my people today shows that I am well grounded not only in my ward but across the constituency,” Fatoba said.
He attributed the support to party members from various wards within the constituency and thanked Governor Biodun Oyebanji, party leaders, and Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele for their backing.
Responding to claims of imposition, Fatoba said the turnout of over 360 party members who queued behind him contradicted the allegation.
“Politicians can say whatever they like, but the facts speak for themselves. What we see here today shows clearly that I am grounded and loved by my people,” he stated.
Fatoba urged supporters to maintain the same momentum ahead of the June 20 governorship election and the party’s affirmation exercise for Senator Opeyemi Bamidele scheduled for Monday, May 19, 2026.
The APC primaries are part of the party’s process to select candidates for the June 20 governorship and legislative elections in Ekiti State.
