Supporters and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kosofe Federal Constituency on Saturday pledged peaceful conduct as the party’s House of Representatives primary election got underway in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that party faithful gathered early at the venue of the exercise amid security presence, with supporters maintaining orderly conduct while awaiting the commencement of the process.
Speaking with NAN, an APC executive member and supporter of a House of Representatives aspirant, Mr Azeez Onamuyiwa, said supporters had been fully mobilized for the exercise.
“We have our supporters here to ensure a peaceful and well-conducted exercise.
“As you can see, there is no problem here; everything is organized,” he said.
He expressed confidence in the chances of his preferred candidate, saying the turnout showed strong backing ahead of the primary.
Onamuyiwa urged party members to remain calm and conduct themselves responsibly throughout the exercise.
“We are law-abiding citizens and we understand what democracy is about.
“Everyone should ensure their votes count and behave in a manner others can emulate,” he said.
Onamuyiwa added that the primary was part of efforts to strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Commenting on the process, he noted that although some officials were still being expected, the situation remained peaceful.
“We are peaceful people. Democracy gives us the right to choose our candidates, and that is why we are here,” he said.
Onamuyiwa said security agencies were present, while party leaders had sensitized supporters on the need for peaceful conduct.
“We have told our people that we are here to vote, not to fight.
“After the process, we will still come together as one party to support whoever emerges,” he said.
Another party member, Mrs Folashade Awoni, Iyaloja of Marujowo Market, Ojota Steel Garage, said APC members in Ojota had intensified mobilization in support of President Tinubu and other party candidates.
“We are APC members and we have been mobilizing people through regular meetings with party leaders and candidates.
“We are supporting our father, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and that is why we are gathered here,” she told NAN.
Awoni said APC members in Ojota and neighboring communities remained united and committed to the party’s success in the next election cycle.
“We are working together as one team. APC members in Ojota hold meetings regularly, including at Badebo Street and Ojota Steel Garage,” she said.
According to her, the gathering also showed support for APC chieftain Mr Dele Oshinowo ahead of the 2027 elections.
She added that market leaders and traders participated actively due to their loyalty to the party and President Tinubu.
“Our market association came out in full support because Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is like a father to us, and we are among his loyal supporters,” she said.
Awoni also said participants had valid voter and party membership cards.
“We all have our voter cards and membership cards. There is no problem,” she said.
NAN correspondents monitoring the exercise report that the APC House of Representatives aspirant for Kosofe, Mr Dele Oshinowo, arrived at the venue but left shortly after.
Voters had been present at the venue since 8:00 a.m., while some officials were still being expected as of 12:30 p.m.(NAN)
