“Imposition unacceptable”: APC aspirants for Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election give national leadership 48-hour ultimatum

A group of aspirants under the United Ibadan North Federal Constituency Aspirants Forum has rejected the alleged imposition of Adewale Olatunji Murphy as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the upcoming Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election.

The aspirants, who include Olusegun Olaleye, Saheed Aderounmu, Adekunle Oladeji, Oluyinka Omikunle, Idris Lapade, and Khalil Mustapha Repete, issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the APC national leadership to reverse the decision.

The aspirants condemned the selection process, describing it as a “breach of democratic norms and party guidelines”.

They accused the National Working Committee (NWC) of sidelining due process and opting for a backdoor endorsement of an unpopular candidate.

Aderounmu, one of the aspirants, stated that “the people of Ibadan North deserve a fair and transparent process”.

*Consensus Candidate Emerges*

The group has unanimously adopted Khalil Mustapha Repete as their consensus candidate, insisting that he emerged through transparent consultation with stakeholders and grassroots members in the constituency.

“We have elected Hon. Khalil Mustapha Repete as our consensus candidate through a unanimous process and believe he is the best candidate to represent the people of Ibadan North Federal Constituency,” the aspirants said.

*Call for Intervention*

The aspirants have called on the APC national leadership, the Presidency, and other relevant stakeholders to intervene in the matter.

They warned that failure to address the crisis could lead to internal rebellion and voter apathy during the August 16 by-election.

The aspirants also accused Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, of complicity in the alleged imposition. They urged him to publicly distance himself to protect his credibility and party unity.

“We accuse the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, of complicity in the alleged imposition, urging him to publicly distance himself to protect his credibility and party unity,” the aspirants stated.

The group cited President Bola Tinubu’s emergence through democratic primaries, urging the APC leadership to emulate his example and preserve the party’s integrity in Oyo State.

“Party victory lies in justice, openness, and respect for the people’s choice,” the aspirants emphasized.

The aspirants warned that failure to comply with their demands could have adverse consequences for the party.

“If the national leadership fails to intervene and resolve this matter, consequences should be placed squarely on the NWC and relevant stakeholders,” they cautioned.

Despite the crisis, the aspirants reaffirmed their loyalty to the APC. However, they vowed to resist any undemocratic decision, insisting that party victory depends on justice, openness, and respect for the people’s.
choice.