….. Calls Stakeholders to rise up for Internal Democracy

A political group under the aegis of All Progressives Congress (APC) compatriots in Ekiti State has expressed dismayed over what it described as the “Dangerous normalization of imposition” within the ruling party in the state.

The group, which expressed serious concerns, stated that the situation no matter how it is been packaged,” undermines internal democracy, alienates party faithful, and erodes trust in leadership”

The group in a press release issued on Saturday by its leader, Tolulope Aladetuyi cited a statement by the APC State Chairman, Barr. Sola Elesin, “Cautioning National Assembly aspirants against invoking the name of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, as their endorser.”

The Compatriots added that the imposition would breed resentment, discourages participation, and ultimately weakens the electoral strength of the party.

Aladetuyi said, “Ordinarily, such a directive would be commendable as a step toward ensuring internal discipline, fairness, and neutrality within the party.

“However, it is both surprising and deeply troubling that the same State Chairman, Barr. Sola Elesin was seen presiding over a strategic meeting on Friday, 3rd April, 2026, around GRA area of Ado Ekiti, where directives were allegedly issued to party Local Government Chairmen to impose Mr Governor preferred candidates under the guise of consensus.

“This contradiction raises serious concerns about consistency, sincerity, and leadership integrity. It is unacceptable for a directive to be issued publicly while contrary actions are allegedly being executed behind the scenes.

“We must be clear that the greatest casualty of this approach is not just the aspirants who are unfairly treated, but the party as a whole, especially as we look ahead to future electoral contests.

“When party members feel sidelined and resulted into self disenfranchised, voter apathy becomes inevitable.

“A demoralized base cannot be mobilized effectively, and this poses a direct threat to the re-election prospects of His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

“Victory in any election is built on unity, inclusion, and the collective ownership of the process. Any attempt to impose candidates risks fracturing the party’s cohesion and handing undue advantage to opposition elements who are eager to capitalize on internal disaffection.

“It is also important to educate party members and the general public on the true meaning of consensus as provided for in the Electoral Act.

“Consensus is not a tool for coercion or imposition. It is a democratic process that requires the voluntary and written consent of all duly cleared aspirants.

“Where even a single aspirant declines to step down, the law mandates that a primary election must be conducted.

“Therefore, any so called consensus arrangement executed without the clear, voluntary agreement of all aspirants is nothing but imposition, and a direct affront to both the spirit and letter of the law.

“We also wish to reiterate our earlier alarm regarding the actions of some members of the Ewi-in-Council whose conduct, driven by narrow and self-serving interests, risks desecrating the sanctity of the palace by dragging the revered stool of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti into partisan political maneuvering.

“The traditional institution must remain a symbol of unity, honour, and cultural integrity, not a tool in political contests.

“We call on our respected father, Are Afe Babalola, and other well meaning leaders to rise in defense of fairness, justice, and the long standing integrity of Ado Ekiti and Ekiti State at large.

“Finally, we call on His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, to urgently call Barr. Sola Elesin and all those involved in these shenanigans to order.

“The APC is a collective institution that belongs to all members, not a select few. Justice, fairness, and internal democracy must not only be preached but must be seen to be upheld at all times.

“The APC must remain a platform where competence, credibility, and due process, not imposition, define leadership selection”, the group said.