By Stella Omona
The primary screening of APC candidates for the Local Government Chairmanship position in Yewa South LGA of Ogun State is generating controversy between Hon Akinlade Abiodun and Senator Olamilekan Adeola group.
Political analysts have said that the race in Yewa South Local Government is between Ifekowajo and Ilaro zone.
Findings indicated that there was significant disruption during the screening process, which was met to shortlist candidates for the upcoming Local government in November, 2024.
However, the only aspirant from ilaro zone, one Prince Ekunola Abraham who is believe to be the most popular as showcase his strength in recently interactive session in Ilaro was not present at the screening exercise which held on Tuesday thereby leading to agitations by some leaders and youths in both camps.
Despite being a strong contenders, It was gathered that Ekunola was not invited for the screening and thus could participate in the selection process.
The screening was conducted among the aspirants from Ifekowajo zone only.
The situation led to serious crisis and subsequent disruption when both Akinlade and Senator Yayi group could not agree on a candidate.
This led to a chaotic atmosphere, prompting several concerned leaders to walk out of the venue in protest. Consequently, thugs and hoodlums took over the event.
The disruption was attributed to the actions of a few overambitious candidates and uncooperative leaders who appear to prioritize personal ambitions over the integrity and transparency of the political process.
The three candidates who had been shortlisted by the acclaimed leaders are: Barr. Abraham Ogunsola; Hon. Julianah Akintayo and Hon. Muideen Akintande.
The disagreement between Hon Akinlade and Senator Adeola group deepened while Yayi’s group led by Chief Ajibola insisted on the choice of Ogunsola while Akinlade group picked Julianah Akintayo or Muideen Akintade one of his aide.
A popular blogger, Mrs, Elizabeth Obanla wife of one of the aspirants took to her Facebook page where she alleged the imposition by Mufutau Akande Ajibola.
She said her husband, Mr Obanla and other were forced to backdown from the race.
Madam Obanla said, it’s better to pick a neutral person most especially the known youth who has the Cloud among the aspirants instead of unpopular candidate being promoted by Baba Ajibola.
She has called on party leadership and Governor Abiodun to intervene to save the situation from further degenerating.
The screening committee was led by Engr. Akintomide and included the following members- Baba Akintomide;- Odugbemi Rasheed;- Fatai Olayode;- Olubori Ayobami;- Aliu Ajibola and Yomi Sol
Party leaders present at the screnin were;
Mufutau Akande Ajibola; Mrs Matilda Iyabode Apampa; Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan; Babatunde Olaotan; Hon. Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade; Hon. Ayo Olubori; Hon. Aderibigbe Tella and several others.
Analysists said such behaviours undermine the principles of fairness and democracy precept that the APC strives to uphold.
