Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ohuan Ward 9, Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, on Tuesday protested at the party’s state secretariat over alleged imposition of a councillorship candidate ahead of the upcoming local government election.
The protesters, led by the ward’s consensus candidate, Sunday Erhabor, accused some party figures of attempting to replace his name despite his endorsement by party leaders within the ward.
Speaking during the protest, Erhabor insisted that his emergence as candidate followed due process and was agreed upon by all five aspirants and party stakeholders.
“I am the consensus candidate endorsed by the ward executives and leaders of Ohuan Ward 9. This decision was reached on March 22 in the presence of all aspirants, and we all agreed,” Erhabor said.
He, however, expressed concern over reports that another name had been submitted to the party secretariat in place of his.
“It is surprising that after the leaders have taken a decision, someone is trying to override it by submitting another person’s name,” he added.
Erhabor emphasised that while he remains loyal to the party, he would only accept any change to his candidacy if it is decided collectively by ward leaders.
“For me, it is not a do-or-die affair. If the leaders who endorsed me meet again and decide otherwise, I will abide by their decision, but not that of an individual,” he stated.
The protesters displayed placards urging the party leadership to uphold internal democracy and respect decisions taken at the ward level.
Responding to the concerns, a party official assured the group that the issue would be reviewed, adding that a stakeholders’ meeting would be convened to address the dispute.
The official reaffirmed the party’s commitment to due process and appealed to members to remain calm while steps are taken to resolve the matter.
