The All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary election in Ondo State was thrown into chaos on Monday after sporadic gunshots erupted at the venue, forcing delegates, journalists, and party members to flee for safety as tension escalated during the exercise.
The incident reportedly occurred at Ward 5, Ebenezer African Church Primary School in Akure, where party stakeholders had gathered for the Ondo Central senatorial primary. Eyewitnesses said the situation quickly deteriorated when suspected thugs stormed the area and began shooting into the air, creating panic and confusion among participants.
The violence disrupted the ongoing voting process and brought proceedings to an abrupt halt, with several delegates abandoning the venue amid fears of further escalation. Some party members were seen running in different directions as security personnel struggled to restore order...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
The ward is the polling unit of the incumbent senator, Adeniyi Adegbonmire, one of the key contenders in the primary election. Other aspirants in the race include Taiwo Fasoranti, an ally of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Olumuyiwa Adu, a legal practitioner.
Following the disruption, Senator Adegbonmire described the exercise as a “complete charade,” alleging that the process had already been compromised before the invasion. He claimed his supporters were in the lead when armed men invaded the venue and opened fire, allegedly targeting his camp and even his vehicle.
Another aspirant, Olumuyiwa Adu, also condemned the exercise, insisting that what transpired could not be described as a legitimate election. He alleged that armed youths openly intimidated delegates and dictated voting preferences, stating that genuine party members were denied their democratic rights.
However, Taiwo Fasoranti dismissed claims of violence influencing the outcome, insisting that the primary was free, fair, and transparent.
The incident adds to growing concerns over internal tensions within the APC in Ondo State, where disputes over political control, candidate selection, and loyalty to key power blocs have continued to trigger unrest during party activities.
In recent times, the state has witnessed repeated episodes of political violence during party congresses and primaries, with allegations of intimidation, thuggery, and clashes between rival factions becoming a recurring issue.
Security agencies are yet to release an official statement on the latest disruption, but sources suggest that investigations may be underway to identify those behind the armed invasion of the polling venue.
As calm gradually returns to the area, stakeholders are calling for urgent intervention from party leadership and security authorities to prevent further breakdown of order ahead of future electoral processes in the state.
