As the All Progressives Congress (APC) elects its governorship candidate for next year’s poll today, Deputy Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the significance of the democratic primary based on the consensus option.
Today is another important day in Ekiti State. The application of Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, who is seeking re-election, would be considered by All Progressives Congress (APC) faithful, represented by five delegates per ward.
No fewer than 177 delegates are expected to give the ticket to the chief executive of the hilly state at the Ekiti Pavillon in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.
Oyebanji is the lone contestant in the historic shadow poll, which would be conducted by Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, assisted by his Edo State counterpart, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Four aspirants started the race in the ruling party. One was disqualified. Another one withrew in dignity. The third, Kayode Ojo, who got a provisional clearance from the Tunji Olawuyi Ajuloopin-led Screening Panel, was disqualified by the National Working Committee (NWC).
Ahead of the exercise, members have held endorsement rallies for the governor, fondly called BAO by admirers, at the wards, local governments, federal constituencies, senatorial districts, and the state level.
It was clear from the multiple endorsements that the party knew where it was heading. Those against the majority opinion were left behind in futile rebellion.
At the weekend, the various wards were busy electing their delegates. Only committed, dedicated and financially compliant members were given the role of primary electors, underscoring the beauty of grassroots democracy, discipline and party supremacy, even at the grassroots.
So far, there is no single complaint from any of the wards across the 16 local governments about the delegate election.
Today’s process is simple and straightforward. The congregation is set for a festival of unity. It is a honourable coronation based on consensus as outlined by the party guidelines. In the absence of a rival, the outcome is absolutely predictable. The coast is clear for the governor to pick the ticket for the second time.
