Former Secretary to Ekiti State Government, Biodun Oyebanji, has been declared winner of the primary election conducted by All Progressive Congress (APC) ahead of the June 18 governorship election in the state.
Oyebanji polled a total of 101,703 votes to clinch the governorship slot of the party amid protests by his fellow aspirants over the conduct of the exercise.
The Chairman, APC Governorship Primary Electoral Committee for Ekiti and Jigawa State Governor, Abubakar Badaru, declared Oyebanji winner of the primary election.
Oyebanji defeated a former governorship aspirant, Kayode Ojo who got 767 votes; National Assembly member, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele who scored 760 votes; former Minister of Works, Senator Dayo Adeyeye who secured 691votes; and House of Representatives member, Femi Bamisile who scored 400 votes.
Shortly after the conclusion of the election, Badaru said the party followed all necessary guidelines during the conduct of the primary election.
He explained that the party has not received any official complaints from any aspirants despite the fact that seven of the eight governorship aspirants had earlier called for the suspension of the exercise.
However, Oyebanji, reacting to his victory, appreciated everyone for voting for him, describing the primary as credible, free and fair.
In his words, “The guidelines of our party gives room for the constitution of appeal committee to attend to whatever grievances anyone has. They have the right to their opinions, but the party will come up with its position on whatever they say.
“We thank God for the role of technology in our politics. The reports I got was that things are going on well. I have seen people queuing for accreditation and voted. In fact, the process has gone on seamlessly and peacefully and the committee should be commended.”
Should things remain the same in the APC, Oyebanji will contest against Olabisi Kolawole, the governorship candidate of PDP, in the June 18 gubernatorial election.
