Kunle Adelabu
Hon. Abdulkareem Shittu, the aspirant for the Ikorodu House of Representative seat, has reacted to the royal endorsement for the incumbent representative, Rep. Babajimi Benson (JB), to represent Ikorodu for the fourth term as not a final decision, stating that the power to decide lies with the people.
Shittu, whose campaign to unseat Rep JB, has been controversial, insisted that he would be going into the primary election against the incumbent on Friday.
The reaction of Shittu’s camp, titled, “IKORODU DIVISION, LET US STAND FOR DEMOCRACY!!!”, which was posted across platforms related to Ikorodu, early Wednesday, by one of the aspirant’s aides, Abdulquadri Nurudeen, has been generating reactions.
”Dear sons and daughters of Ikorodu Division, from Igbogbo to Ijede, Imota to Bayeku, Ikorodu North to Ikorodu West, Isiu to Odogunyan, Majidun to Oreta.
”Let us be clear and united. We are not disturbed by any endorsement, and we are not intimidated by it in any way.
”With utmost respect to our revered traditional rulers (Kabiyesis), their endorsement is not the final decision of the people, nor is it the decision of Almighty God. It remains the personal opinion of respected royal fathers whom we continue to honour and respect deeply”, he said.
Shittu, insisting on Direct Primary election, said further:
”However, democracy must prevail.
”This is exactly why our party provides for DIRECT PRIMARIES, so that every genuine, card-carrying party member can freely decide who represents the people.
”If endorsements alone are enough to determine candidates, there would be no need for primaries”.
He kicked against the endorsement which, to him, is an imposition and urged members of the APC not to succumb.
”Our Party’s Constitution does not empower any individual or group to impose candidates on the people. The power belongs to the members, the grassroots, the loyal party faithful, and the voting delegates across all wards.
”Therefore, do not be discouraged. Do not be deceived. Do not surrender your democratic rights”.
He urged his supporters to ensure his victory by mobilizing for his election at the APC primary on Friday.
”This is the time to mobilize.
”Mobilize your ward. Mobilize your polling unit. Mobilize your street. Mobilize your family and fellow party members.
“Let the people speak through their votes.
”ONE MAN, ONE VOTE. NO IMPOSITION. POWER TO THE PEOPLE.
”Ikorodu Division must decide its future through fairness, unity, and democratic participation.
”Forward this message to all genuine party members across the division”.
