A group of All Progressives Congress (APC) members in Ekiti State has submitted a petition to the party’s Governorship Screening Committee, requesting the disqualification of aspirant Engr. Kayode Ojo from the upcoming primaries. The petition, signed by over 50 concerned party members, alleges irregularities in Ojo’s nomination form.
According to the petitioners, a review of the form by their lawyers revealed that out of 122 listed nominators, 68 were not valid APC members in Ekiti State. Only 54 valid nominators were confirmed, which falls short of the required 80. Furthermore, the petition claims that Ojo failed to meet the mandatory spread of at least five nominators from each local government, as stipulated in the party’s guidelines.
The petitioners, who include Mr. Jogunola Joel Tolani and Mr. Alake Busuyi, expressed concern that Ojo’s alleged non-compliance undermines the party’s values of honesty, transparency, and integrity. They called on the Screening Committee to uphold the party’s constitution and guidelines, ensuring that only aspirants who meet all requirements are cleared.
In response to the petition, Alhaji Deji Ayelabowo described the petitioners as “jesters and desperate people,” stating that nobody can stop Kayode Ojo from contesting the Ekiti 2026 governorship election. Ayelabowo added that “nobody can undo what God has done.”
The petition highlights the importance of adhering to party rules and guidelines in the selection process. The APC members are urging the Screening Committee to demonstrate courage and fairness in its decision, ensuring the integrity of the party’s selection process. As the 2025 governorship primary approaches, the petitioners are calling on party members and the public to remain vigilant, preventing any breach of party rules.
The outcome of the petition remains to be seen, and the Screening Committee’s decision will be closely watched. The Ekiti State governorship election is scheduled for 2026, and the APC’s selection process is a crucial step in determining the party’s candidate. The party’s ability to uphold its values and guidelines will be put to the test as it navigates the complexities of the selection process.
