Senator Abiodun Sarafadeen Alli, the senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has emerged winner of the Oyo State All Progressives Congress, APC, gubernatorial primary election.
According to the results declared, Alli polled 578,143 votes, beating former Minister of Power, Oloye Bayo Adelabu, who garnered 19,193 votes and one other.
Shortly after the results were announced, the Okanlomo Odua/Bada Olubadan, Dotun Sanusi, congratulated Senator Alli on his decisive victory.
In a statement on Thursday, Sanusi said, ”We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to the entire APC family, ROCOF/JDS group, market men and women, and all loyal supporters whose commitment, prayers and steadfast dedication made this victory possible.”
”Today’s victory is not just for one person, but for every progressive voice yearning for a better and prosperous Oyo State. May this be the beginning of greater victories ahead as we move united, stronger and more determined,” he said.
Meanwhile, one of the gubernatorial aspirants in the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adebayo Adelabu, has raised concerns over the conduct of the exercise. He alleged irregularities during the party’s gubernatorial primary election held across the state, stating that the process did not reflect the will of party members.
Speaking to Journalists, Adelabu alleged that the reports from several wards across the state indicated cases of intimidation, misconduct, and complete manipulation of results.
He claimed that in some wards, the election was allegedly conducted hours before the officially scheduled time, and the figures were written. In other instances, party members were intimidated and prevented from voting.
I have received credible reports of irregularities and gross misconduct that undermine the integrity of this primary. In some places, elections did not even take place, yet results were allegedly written and recorded. This is not good for our democracy, and something must be done about it,” he stated.
The former Minister of Power further alleged that some party executives connived with certain aspirants to impose what he called ”consensus candidates” as against the national leadership directive for a free and transparent direct primary election.
”There was nothing like consensus candidates. Eleven aspirants purchased forms and were cleared to run in the race. Every aspirant should have been given a level playing ground,” he stated.
He disclosed that he will review the details and determine the next line of action in line with party rules.
The APC leadership in Oyo State has yet to issue an official response to the allegations.
