By Our Reporter
Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State have condemned the violence that disrupted the House of Representatives primary election in Ward 11, Ipao-Ekiti.
The affected members from Òkè-Àkò, Irele, and Ijowa Ekiti said the exercise was marred by intimidation and attacks allegedly carried out by political thugs against supporters of rival aspirants.
Hon. Samuel Adetiba and Mr. Ore Bamidele were among those attacked, with Bamidele reportedly beaten into a coma and currently receiving treatment at a private hospital. Campaign materials were also vandalised during the incident.
The members alleged that the violence was carried out in the presence of party stakeholders, expressing concern over growing political intolerance and its impact on party unity.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Olaiya Ajibulu called on the APC leadership and Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji to intervene and ensure justice for victims.
They further demanded that subsequent primaries involving the affected communities be moved from Ipao-Ekiti to a neutral and secure venue, or conducted separately to guarantee safety and fairness.
The group sympathised with victims and wished them quick recovery, reaffirming their commitment to peaceful and democratic processes within the party.