Violence disrupts APC Ward 10 primary in Ekiti, exercise declared inconclusive

Chaos erupted during the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ward 10 primary election at the Fajuyi Pavilion in Ado Local Government Area of Ekiti State on Saturday, forcing electoral officials to halt the exercise and declare it inconclusive.

 

The contest involved Olushola Fatoba and Tope Ogunleye, popularly known as RST, with supporters and agents of both aspirants gathering at the venue ahead of the commencement of voting.

 

Eyewitnesses alleged that tension escalated after suspected thugs believed to be loyal to Fatoba stormed the venue armed with canes and firearms, allegedly to intimidate supporters of Ogunleye and suppress participation.

 

Despite the tense atmosphere, supporters of Ogunleye reportedly remained at the venue, chanting solidarity songs in support of their candidate as voting eventually commenced under heavy security concerns.

 

Observers said Ogunleye appeared to enjoy stronger support among party members present at the primary.

 

However, violence later erupted following disagreements between supporters of both camps, leading to clashes that forced officials to abruptly suspend the exercise.

 

During the unrest, Ogunleye’s agent, identified simply as Mr Sunday, was reportedly assaulted.

 

Another supporter, Mr Femi Ogunleye, was allegedly beaten while his Tecno Spark 9 mobile phone was seized.

 

A female supporter, Mrs Oluwaseun Osamuwa, was also said to have been attacked and dispossessed of her Apple smart wristwatch.

 

Both Mr Ogunleye and Mrs Osamuwa reportedly sustained injuries and were rushed to hospital for treatment.

 

As of the time of filing this report, no winner had emerged, while the Ward 10 primary remained inconclusive.

 

The incident has sparked renewed concerns over violence, intimidation and thuggery during internal party elections.

 

Stakeholders and political observers have called on security agencies and party authorities to investigate the disruption, bring perpetrators to justice and ensure the credibility of future primaries.