A governorship aspirant in Ekiti State, Kayode Olubunmi Ojo, has raised concerns over the alleged harassment of his supporters by security agencies and the state government. In a statement, Ojo claimed that his supporters have faced unjust arrests, intimidation, and detention, as well as denial of entitlements.
Specifically, Ojo identified several supporters who have been targeted, including Bayo Aderiye, Taiwo Fabiyi, Obebe Oluwafemi Ayekooto, and Olugbenga Kayejo. He also mentioned that members of the APC Ward Executive in Ikoro Ekiti have been harassed. One supporter, Akogun Abayomi, was allegedly detained secretly on January 1 without a warrant and denied access to legal counsel, family, and medication.
Ojo accused some police officers of abusing their power for political gain. He also claimed that former political office holders who are perceived to be his supporters, including Bamidele Gbayigi and Omotehinse Abraham, are being denied their legitimate allowances.
These allegations come amid heightened tensions within the Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the June 20 governorship election. Ojo and another aspirant were reportedly disqualified from the party’s primary, paving the way for incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji to emerge as the consensus candidate.
Supporters of disqualified aspirants, including Ojo, have previously raised concerns over intimidation and threats during internal party arrangements. Some have called for intervention by the national party leadership to address these issues. The Ekiti State Police Command has not commented on the allegations, as the Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, could not be reached for comment.
The allegations of harassment and intimidation highlight the challenges facing the APC in Ekiti State as it prepares for the upcoming governorship election. The party’s internal conflicts and allegations of abuse of power by security agencies may impact the election’s outcome and the state’s political stability. As the election approaches, it remains to be seen how these issues will be addressed and what implications they will have for the state’s political landscape.
