…Seek Transparent Candidate Selection
By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin
Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Ekiti, Irepodun, Isin and Oke-Ero Federal Constituency of Kwara State have opposed the reported fourth-term ambition of the member representing the constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Tunji Olawuyi (Ajuloopin), and expressed reservations over reports that Mrs. Sumbo Oyeyemi may emerge as the party’s candidate for the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a press briefing in Omu-Aran, headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area, the stakeholders, under the aegis of the APC Stakeholders Forum, said imposing any candidate could create divisions within the party and affect its electoral prospects.
The forum’s Convener, Mr. Olusegun Adewara, said the group’s position was based on equity, fairness and justice.
According to him, the House of Representatives ticket should be zoned to Oke-Ero Local Government Area, which he said has not produced a representative in the House since the return to democratic rule in 1999.
The forum also urged the APC leadership to ensure that the party’s candidate emerges through a transparent, credible and inclusive process rather than through imposition.
The stakeholders expressed support for a candidate they said should have strong ties to the constituency, arguing that such a person would be better positioned to understand and represent the interests of the people.
They also raised concerns about reports surrounding the eligibility of one of the individuals being linked to the race, calling on the party and relevant authorities to ensure that all aspirants comply with applicable electoral laws and requirements.
The forum warned that failure to adopt an open and transparent candidate selection process could deepen internal divisions within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As of the time of filing this report, neither Hon. Tunji Olawuyi nor Mrs. Sumbo Oyeyemi had publicly responded to the positions expressed by the stakeholders.
