There were cases of manipulation, imposition across Oyo — Adelabu

By Adejayan Gbenga

Adebayo Adelabu, a governorship aspirant in the Oyo State All Progressives Congress (APC), has alleged irregularities and intimidation during the party’s governorship primary election.

Speaking with journalists after voting at Ward 9 in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area, Adelabu described the exercise in his ward as peaceful and transparent. He also claimed strong support, saying over 430 of about 437 registered members voted for him.

However, he alleged that the situation was different in several other wards across the state, where he claimed irregularities were recorded.

According to him, some elections did not hold in certain areas, yet results were allegedly announced.

“In some places, elections did not even take place, yet results were allegedly written and recorded,” he said.

Adelabu also accused some party officials of manipulating the process and attempting to impose consensus candidates despite directives for a direct primary.

He maintained that all cleared aspirants should have been given equal opportunity in the contest.

The aspirant also disclosed that petitions would be submitted over the alleged irregularities across different zones of the state, including Ibadan, Oke-Ogun, Ogbomosho, Ibarapa and Oyo, while expressing optimism that justice would be done.