Kunle Adelabu
Dr. Frederic Oladeinde, former Commissioner for Transportation, Lagos State, has described the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election so far in Ikorodu Division as peaceful with outcomes reflecting the wishes of the people.
Former Commissioner Oladeinde who has participated in all the primary elections at Ward A4, APC Secretariat in Ikorodu, also said that those that have emerged as candidates so far, have the required experience and capacities to represent the people very well.
He spoke with THE IMPACT after joining party leaders and members to affirm Dr Obafemi Kadiri Hamzat as the APC governorship candidate in Ikorodu on Thursday.
“The process has been very peaceful. You can see that people have come out in large numbers to exercise their civic responsibilities.
“I think we are united as a party, and everyone is happy with the candidates. You can also see that people have come out to ensure that Dr. Hamzat emerges as our candidate for Lagos State.”
Speaking on the primary election so far, Dr Oladeinde emphasised that Ikorodu people have expressed their rights to pick right candidates to stand for election in the 2027 General Elections.
“I think the process has been fair. When you look at the candidates that have emerged, they are people with experience. In situations where we believe a particular candidate has the experience and capacity needed, the party gives such a person the opportunity.
“Within the party, efforts have been made through negotiations and consultations to ensure that the right candidates are presented. For example, in the House of Assembly primary the other day, we had several candidates contesting, and they are all good candidates. I believe the people will freely exercise their rights and choose the person they want.
“When you look at the House of Representatives, you can see what Jimi Benson has done over the years, and that is why many people came out to support him massively. The same goes for the Senator. He is a very strong candidate, and if you saw the turnout at the Town Hall, it was clear that people came out in support of him,”
Dr Oladeinde added:
“The party stalwart gave kudos to the APC comprehensively, “Overall, the candidates that have emerged are experienced people who place the interests of Ikorodu and the people above personal interests. Those are the kinds of leaders we want.
“That is why I am here personally to show my support for all the candidates and encourage them.”
Speaking on the Assembly election which results have not been released, Dr. Oladeinde said that the position was highly contested for because all the aspirants are strong with massive followings.
“Yes, the primary election is competitive, and that is what grassroots democracy is about. Every candidate has supporters, and everyone is expressing their preference for who they want to see emerge as the party’s candidate.
“Naturally, there may be a little friction here and there, but that is part of democracy. In the end, the majority will decide.
“Initially, we had six candidates contesting, but two later stepped down, leaving four candidates in the race. So, naturally, there are different groups campaigning and mobilising support for their preferred candidates. But overall, the process has remained peaceful and orderly.”
