FAYEMI WARNS AGAINST ENDORSEMENTS, BACKS DIRECT PRIMARIES IN EKITI APC

By: Balogun Ibrahim
Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has called on members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state to disregard rumours suggesting that any aspirant for the National Assembly seats ahead of the 2027 general elections has been endorsed.
Speaking at an APC stakeholders’ meeting in Isan Ekiti on Saturday, Fayemi emphasised that the Electoral Act provides for both consensus and direct primaries, noting that consensus can only be adopted when all aspirants are in agreement.
He stressed that elections remain inevitable where consensus is not reached, stating, “Elections are unavoidable wherever people fail to agree on a consensus mode of picking a candidate for the party.”
Fayemi also raised concerns about the influx of new members into the party, warning against any attempt to sideline long-standing members. “There is nothing wrong with new members joining, but due process must be followed. We cannot allow anyone to take over the party,” he said.
The former governor questioned why any aspirant would shy away from direct primaries, urging contenders to rely on their performance and track record. “Any serious aspirant must be ready to face a primary election,” he added.
He further underscored the need for strict adherence to the party’s constitution, guiding principles, and the Electoral Act to avoid post-primary disputes and litigation.
Fayemi advised aspirants, particularly those currently holding public office, to present their achievements to the electorate rather than depend on perceived endorsements.
Meanwhile, the state APC chairman, Sola Elesin, had earlier clarified that Governor Biodun Oyebanji has not endorsed any candidate for the senatorial or House of Representatives positions, describing such claims as misrepresentation.
Elesin reiterated that the APC remains committed to internal democracy, allowing all aspirants to freely campaign and present themselves to party members without interference.
