PDP Chieftain Criticises APC Primaries, Raises Concerns Over Nigeria’s Democracy
…As Ewenla alleges manipulation, intimidation, and electoral irregularities during ruling party primaries.
A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and Southwest Ex-Officio, Ambassador (Dr.) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla, has condemned the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries held across Nigeria on May 16, 2026, describing the exercise as a reflection of what he termed the ruling party’s failure to uphold democratic principles and transparency.
In a statement made available to journalists, Ewenla alleged that the APC primaries were marred by widespread irregularities, manipulation, intimidation, and fraudulent practices during the Option A4 voting process.
According to him, several states and local government areas witnessed incidents where figures were allegedly manipulated openly by returning officers without accountability.
He claimed that vote counts announced during the exercise did not correspond with the number of people physically present at voting venues, describing the process as embarrassing and damaging to Nigeria’s democratic image.
The PDP stalwart further expressed concern that the alleged irregularities occurred despite live television coverage and the presence of cameras, noting that both Nigerians and the international community witnessed the conduct of the primaries.
Ewenla questioned the credibility of future elections under the APC-led administration, arguing that if the ruling party could not conduct transparent primaries within its own structure, Nigerians had reasons to worry about the 2027 general elections.
He also condemned reports of violence and killings linked to the primaries, including an incident reported in Ikotun, Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State.
According to him, no political ambition should lead to violence, intimidation, or the loss of innocent lives.
The PDP chieftain accused the APC administration of failing to address critical national challenges, including insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and rising cost of living.
He stated that many Nigerians were struggling to meet basic needs while the ruling party remained focused on political control and internal power struggles.
Ewenla called on Nigerians to reject electoral fraud, manipulation, violence, and corruption, stressing that the country deserved credible leadership, transparent elections, and accountable governance.
He maintained that the future of Nigeria’s democracy depended on the willingness of citizens to demand fairness, justice, and responsible leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections.
