Confusion is sweeping the APC primaries in Ogun as the deputy governor’s name is missing

Zainab Abioye

Confusion and tension gripped the All Progressives Congress in Ogun State on Saturday following the exclusion of the Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, from the list of cleared aspirants for the Ogun West senatorial primaries.

The incident, which occurred a few hours before the exercise, sparked outrage among party faithful and increased concerns about the internal cohesion of the party in power.

Salako-Oyedele, who had publicly indicated interest in running, is said to have purchased his nomination forms and concluded consultations with party leaders, stakeholders and interest groups in the five Ogun West local government areas.

His exclusion, however, has perplexed supporters and political observers, many of whom describe the situation as unprecedented and undermining trust in the party’s internal processes.

Platform Times findings revealed that the lieutenant governor had stepped up engagements with women’s groups and political associates in recent weeks, positioning herself as a strong contender and the only prominent female aspirant in the race.

A member of the She Leads advocacy group, Desola Jolaogun, described the omission as shocking, stressing that the deputy governor had demonstrated loyalty and commitment to the party.

“It is surprising that the name of a woman who has demonstrated ability, party loyalty and commitment to grassroots consultations is missing from the list at this stage,” he said, adding that many women in the district had anticipated her participation.

Salako-Oyedele’s supporters also insisted that she met all the established requirements, expressing concern that the development would discourage women’s participation in politics within the state.

The controversy has since triggered intense discussions in political circles in Ogun, with party members seeking clarification from the APC leadership on the circumstances surrounding the list.

A party leader in Ogun East, Otunba Fatai Sowemimo, had earlier warned against exclusionary tendencies, warning that the imposition of candidates could deepen divisions within the party.

According to him, sidelining loyal stakeholders may not immediately lead to defections, but could result in a silent protest capable of weakening the party’s electoral strength.

Observers also pointed out that Ogun State last produced a female senator more than two decades ago when Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello was serving in the Senate, stressing that the current development could further hamper efforts to promote gender inclusion.

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