Mixed reactions trail APC primaries in Ifako-Ijaiye

Mixed reactions have trailed the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency II in Lagos State.

An aspirant for the constituency, Rasheed Makinde, described the exercise as peaceful and successful, while a former party chairman raised concerns over it conduct.

Makinde, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Wednesday, said the primary reflected unity within the party and the strong participation of stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He commended party leaders, women groups, transport workers, community stakeholders and the media for what he described as a smooth and well-organised exercise.

He said: “I have never seen such a good election before.

“I appreciate everybody for their support and interest in the party.”

Makinde said the peaceful atmosphere demonstrated growing cohesion within the APC and confidence in its internal democratic process.

He pledged to sustain developmental initiatives in the constituency if elected, with priority on youth empowerment, elderly welfare and child development.

According to him, his administration would remain open to stakeholder engagement and community-driven suggestions.

“Suggestions and advice from stakeholders will always be considered in my administration,” he added.

However, a former APC Chairman in Ojokoro, Adewale Bello, faulted the exercise, adding that it was unfair and inconclusive.

Bello alleged that some individuals disrupted the exercise and undermined arrangements earlier put in place by party members.

He said: “It is an inconclusive primary.

“If any result is announced, we will not accept it.”

He called on the party leadership to conduct a fresh exercise to ensure fairness and credibility.

NAN reports that contestants for the APC Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency II primary included Abolore Jamiu, Adeyemi Onitiri, Emmanuel Olotu, and Makinde.