The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State is currently dealing with internal tensions following its senatorial primary elections. During the primaries, Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South), Adeniyi Adegbonmire (Ondo Central), and Jide Ipinsagba (Ondo North) were declared winners.
However, Alex Ajipe, an aspirant in the Ondo North senatorial district, has raised serious concerns over the legitimacy of the process. Ajipe has alleged that the election, particularly in Owo, was a “charade,” accusing party leaders of using an irregular delegates list. He stated that individuals who were not party members, such as market women and artisans, were brought in to vote in place of actual APC delegates. According to Ajipe, this undermined the integrity of the election.
Ajipe further claimed that the election violated both the APC constitution and Nigeria’s Electoral Act, as aspirants were not informed of the delegates ahead of time, a crucial requirement according to party regulations. In light of these allegations, Ajipe has called for the primary to be canceled and for a fresh election to be held.
Ajipe has also expressed concerns for his safety, claiming that both he and his family have received threats over his political ambitions. He plans to appeal the election results within the party, and if unsatisfied, may take legal action.