A Nigerian lawmaker has stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) has never engaged in election rigging, attributing the party’s victories to effective voter mobilization. Hon. Raheem Tunji Olawuyi, representing Ekiti/Oke-Ero/Irepodun/Osi Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, made this remark during the launch of the APC’s electronic membership registration exercise in Kwara State.
Olawuyi emphasized that the party’s focus on grassroots mobilization, rather than electoral malpractice, has contributed to its successes. He explained that his own political strategy involves early preparation and voter mobilization, allowing him to anticipate vote counts in each polling booth. This approach, he claims, makes it difficult for opponents to rig elections.
The electronic registration exercise, according to Olawuyi, aims to revalidate party members and ensure that membership strength aligns with electoral performance. He noted that the party’s membership figures have not always matched the number of votes recorded during elections, citing the 2023 presidential election as an example.
President Bola Tinubu’s administration is keen on establishing the true numerical strength of the party nationwide, Olawuyi said. The e-registration exercise will eliminate multiple registrations by linking each membership to the National Identification Number. This, he explained, will prevent discrepancies and provide an accurate count of party members.
Olawuyi urged APC members to mobilize more people into the party to ensure stronger representation and influence at all levels of governance. He also spoke about his political alias, “Ajuloopin,” which he inherited from his father, and how it has contributed to his political career.
The Speaker of the Irepodun Local Government Legislative Council, Aliyu Omoboye, encouraged party members to participate in the e-registration exercise, describing it as key to the APC’s electoral success. He expressed confidence in the party’s chances in the 2027 general election, citing the importance of mobilization in achieving victory.
The APC’s electronic registration exercise is part of the party’s efforts to strengthen its structure and prepare for upcoming elections. As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general election, the party’s ability to mobilize voters and ensure accurate membership counts will be crucial in determining its success. The exercise is expected to continue in various parts of the country, with the aim of revalidating party members and enhancing the party’s electoral performance.
