Top political leaders in Okitipupa and Irele local government area of Ondo State have rejected the emergence of Olumuyiwa Daramola as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate for the Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency, describing the development as unrepresentative of the people’s will.
In a statement issued by the leaders, it was maintained that no candidate should be imposed on the constituency without broad consultation and the endorsement of key stakeholders across Ikale land.
They emphasized that the governor does not have the authority to unilaterally decide the party’s candidate without grassroots input.
The stakeholders listed prominent figures whose involvement they consider critical in such decisions, including Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, Senator Kunlere, Pastor Femi Agagu, Olatubora (SAN), Hon. Igbasan, Hon. Olusegun Ayerin, Hon. Omogbehin, Hon. Gboluga, and Hon. Olakunde, among others.
The leaders further alleged that Daramola’s emergence was influenced by an individual described as a non-indigene from Ogun State who is reportedly close to the governor. They condemned what they termed external interference in Ikale political affairs, claiming the individual had allegedly boasted of wielding undue influence over the political direction of the constituency.
Concerns were also raised over alleged inducement in the selection process, with the leaders calling for transparency, fairness, and adherence to democratic principles.
They warned that sidelining the collective voice of Ikale stakeholders could spark tension and weaken unity within the constituency, urging party authorities to address the situation to prevent further discontent.
