Youths in Abeokuta South II Constituency have staged a protest in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital demanding reversal of the All Progressive Congress APC primary organized to elect Assembly candidates describing the process as marred by fraudulent practices and imposition of delegates.
During the protest, the youths who matched round the major streets in the state capital to Akinrogun Olusegun Osoba's house, carried placards with various inscriptions such as: “We say no to imposition of delegates,” “You can not use us to build your political dynasty,” “Let the popular candidate win”, “Osoba is the only leader we know”, “The leaders cannot trade Abeokuta South II for millions of naira.” stressing they were poised to reject any form party primary which negates the interest of the people.
The leader of the group, David Oguntola, explained the peaceful protest was a forewarning to self imposed party leaders spearheaded by Afolabi Afuape, against imposition of unpopular candidates in the party, adding that people who have labored for the party should be allowed to have a level playing field.
The protesters also fingered Titi Oseni, Dr. Femi Majekodunmi, Omolaja Majekodunmi (Abeokuta South LG Chairman, Femi Ilori, Tunji Fagbenro (Agbomola), Niyi Edun (Oniro), Alhaji Muyideen Soremekun, Farouk Akintunde in the alleged tampering of delegates list and imposition of assembly candidate.
"They have vowed to rubbish the legacy of our authentic leader and we will stand against this. Aremo Olusegun Osoba is our leader. They promised to scheme him out of things and now it is evident they are acting thier script." Oguntola said.
"We will not allow a new comer to represent us. The incumbent has done a lot for the good people of Abeokuta South II despite limited resources at his disposal. The records are there. The people love him. Why should some leaders now trade our collective welfare for millions of naira?" he queried.
They urged the APC National Leader, Akinrogun Olusegun Osoba and Ogun state governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun to intercede in the issue before it jettison the party's chance during the 2023 polls.
In his reaction, former deputy governor of Ogun state, Prince Segun Adesegun urged the protesters to keep faith in the leadership of the party to resolve all issues amicably.
Aside tampering with the delegate list, it is on record that the Abeokuta South II APC primary election held in Abeokuta on Thursday also witnessed molestation of delegates perceived to be opposition to Afolabi Afuape's candidate