Security has been tightened around the popular Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti, venue of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election as accreditation of delegates commenced early Monday morning.
Armed security operatives drawn from the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps were stationed at strategic points within and around the pavilion to ensure hitch-free exercise.
Vehicular movement around the venue was restricted, while heavy security checkpoints were mounted along major routes leading to the area.
Only accredited delegates, party officials, and journalists with official tags were granted access into the premises.
Representatives of the APC National Working Committee were also on ground to supervise the process.
As early as 7:00 a.m., delegates from the 177 wards in the 16 local government areas of the state had started arriving the venue for accreditation.
The atmosphere at the venue was calm but heavily guarded, with security agents conducting stop and search on vehicles and screening of individuals entering the premises.
Patrol vans and anti-riot personnel were also visible along adjoining streets.
A total of 885 delegates, five each from 177 wards across the state, are expected to participate in the exercise to affirm Governor Biodun Oyebanji as the party’s governorship flag bearer for the June 20, 2026 election.
The governor, who is the sole aspirant in the contest, is expected to be ratified by the delegates after the voting process in line with the party’s constitution and laid down internal electoral guidelines.
His unopposed emergence followed the withdrawal of Mrs. Atinuke Omolayo and the earlier disqualification of Kayode Ojo and Abimbola Olajumoke who failed to meet the party’s requirements.
Speaking to journalists, the Ekiti APC Publicity Secretary, Segun Dipe said the heavy security presence was part of precautionary measures to ensure a hitch-free and peaceful exercise.
He commended the cooperation of delegates and party stakeholders across the 16 councils.
“We are satisfied with the arrangements. The process has been smooth and peaceful so far. Our delegates have shown maturity and discipline, and we expect the exercise to end successfully”, he added.
A senior police officer at the venue of the primary told The Nation that the tight security arrangement was to guarantee safety and prevent unauthorized access.
He said the command had deployed enough personnel to cover the entire pavilion and adjoining areas.
The mood among party members was upbeat, with many chanting solidarity songs in support of Governor Oyebanji’s candidacy.
A delegate from Ijero local Government and former House of Representatives member, Bar. Wumi Ogunlola, described the process as smooth and well-coordinated.
She said the atmosphere reflected the unity within the party and the widespread acceptance of Oyebanji’s leadership.
“We came early and the accreditation has been orderly. Everyone is happy because this is a moment of reaffirming our faith in the governor’s leadership,” she said with excitement.
As of the time of filing this report, accreditation of delegates was still ongoing, with voting expected to commence shortly after.
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