An aspirant and former Chairman of Agege Local Government, Alhaji Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi, has rejected the outcome of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for Agege Constituency I, alleging that his victory was overturned by the party leadership in Lagos State despite what he described as a clear mandate from party members.

Addressing journalists on the controversy surrounding the primary, Egunjobi accused the state leadership of the party of denying him victory and announcing another aspirant, Gbenga Michael Abiola, as the party’s candidate.

The former chairman, who was supported by the APC Chairman in Agege, Fatai Bisiriyu, at the press conference, as well as all the ward chairmen under the constituency, also played clips showing the collation process and his declaration as the winner.

According to him, results from voting centres and records available to security and electoral authorities showed that he won the contest convincingly and was declared winner by electoral officials.

“Based on the results obtained from the various voting centres and the records available to INEC and the DSS, I won the election and was officially declared winner by the electoral officials in full view of the public,” he said.

According to Egunjobi, the figures in his possession showed that he secured 9,132 votes, while Segun Olawoye polled 560 votes and Gbenga Michael Abiola scored 434 votes.

“It is on record that I scored 9,132 votes, while Segun Olawoye and Gbenga Michael Abiola had 560 and 434 votes respectively,” he stated.

The APC chieftain expressed disappointment that Abiola, whom he said finished third in the contest, was eventually announced as the party’s candidate.

“For some reason beyond fairness, justice, and the principles of democracy, the party hierarchy in the state, in the comfort of their office, coronated Abiola, who came a distant third,” Egunjobi alleged.

Describing the development as a threat to democratic principles, he insisted that the dispute transcended his personal ambition.

“This is not merely about my personal political aspiration. It is about protecting the integrity of our electoral process and ensuring that every vote counts,” he said.

“Democracy thrives when the will of the people is respected. When that will is distorted, confidence in the system is weakened.”

Despite his grievances, Egunjobi said he remained loyal to the APC and had no intention of causing unrest within the party.

“I want to state clearly that my intention is not to cause division, unrest, or disaffection within our party. I remain a committed member of this party and a firm believer in democratic principles,” he said.

“My appeal is for fairness, transparency, and justice.”

He disclosed that he had already activated the party’s internal dispute-resolution mechanisms by filing a formal petition challenging the outcome of the primary.

“I have therefore resolved to pursue all legitimate and constitutional avenues available to seek redress,” he said.

“I have submitted a formal petition to the appropriate party organs and electoral appeal bodies, presenting all relevant evidence in support of my claim.”

Egunjobi urged the party leadership to review the matter objectively and ensure that justice prevails.

“I call on the party leadership to carefully examine the facts, review the results objectively, and ensure that justice is done,” he said.

“The credibility of our internal democratic process depends on the ability of our institutions to act fairly and courageously.”

He also appealed to his supporters to remain peaceful while the matter is being addressed through established channels.

“To my supporters and well-wishers, I urge you to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding. Do not allow frustration to lead to actions that may undermine our cause,” he said.

“Let us demonstrate faith in the rule of law and in the democratic process while we seek a fair resolution.”

Expressing confidence that his petition would receive fair consideration, Egunjobi maintained that the electorate’s decision should be respected.

“In conclusion, I remain confident that the truth will prevail,” he said.

“The voice of the people is sacred. The majority should always have their way in a democracy, and every effort must be made to ensure that their choice is respected. I will continue to stand for justice, fairness, and the principles of democracy.” (Daily Trust)

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