Enone APC primaries: “What happened was selection, not election” — Okoriko Abah

A frontline aspirant in the All Progressives Congress, APC, House of Representatives primary election for the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, Okoriko Abah, has rejected the outcome of the exercise, describing it as a mere selection process rather than a credible election.

Abah stated this in a message addressed to his supporters and members of the Enone Dream Team 2027 following the controversial APC primary election held on Saturday.

According to him, no genuine primary election took place anywhere across the constituency, alleging that electoral materials were not distributed to the wards, local government areas, or the constituency headquarters in Okpoga for party members to exercise their voting rights.

“What transpired during the House of Representatives primary election yesterday was not a true reflection of democratic practice,” Abah said.

“Sadly, there was no real primary election conducted anywhere across the constituency. Electoral materials were not taken to the wards, Local Government Areas and Constituency Headquarters at Okpoga for party members to exercise their constitutional rights.

“What took place was merely the selection of a preferred candidate rather than a transparent and credible primary election.”

The APC aspirant acknowledged the anger and disappointment among his supporters, noting that many people invested their time, energy, resources, and hope in a process they believed would be free and fair.

Despite the alleged irregularities, Abah appealed to his supporters to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding, warning that political manipulation should not push them into actions capable of disrupting the peace and unity of the constituency.

He maintained that his political movement stands for fairness, justice, inclusion, and credible leadership.

Abah also commended his supporters across Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo for their loyalty and commitment throughout the political process.

According to him, the massive support received during the consultations and campaigns showed that his message and vision strongly resonated with the people.

He further assured supporters that the political struggle for justice and credible leadership in Enone would continue despite the setback.

“Though this moment may be painful, it does not define our future. No manipulation can permanently silence the voice and will of the people,” he added.

The APC primary election in the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency was marred by protests, allegations of irregularities, claims of result manipulation, and accusations of attempts to impose a preferred candidate.