Yemi Olayinka alleges intimidation at Ekiti APC primaries, Fatoba dismisses claims

By Boye Oyeyemi

Yemi Olayinka, an aspirant for the All Progressives Congress House of Representatives ticket for Ado Ekiti/Irepodun-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, has alleged intimidation against opposing elements during the party’s primary election.

Olayinka, who contested alongside incumbent lawmaker Steve Fatoba and Tope Ogunleye, said threats were directed at his supporters ahead of the exercise.

Speaking in Ado Ekiti on Saturday after voting in his ward, the aspirant said his camp faced pressure but still turned out in defiance of the alleged intimidation.

“We were intimidated. They told our supporters not to come, that they would be beaten or shot. I said whoever wants to shoot me should come,” he said.

He added that the participation of his supporters amounted to a form of victory, despite the outcome of the exercise in his ward.

However, Fatoba dismissed the claims of intimidation, insisting that his support base was clearly demonstrated during the primary.

He urged party members to remain united, while commending APC leaders in the state, including Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, for their support.

Also reacting, former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State and Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Examinations Council, Prof. Modupe Adelabu, said the process was democratic and open to all aspirants.