A House of Representatives aspirant for Ado-Ekiti/Irepodun-Ifelodun under the APC, Pastor Yemi Olayinka, says his camp overcame intimidation by taking part in the party’s primary election.
Speaking in Ado-Ekiti, he said threats against his supporters did not stop them from turning out.
He described the turnout as a show of resilience, despite political pressure in the state.
Although he lost at ward level, Olayinka said he was satisfied with his participation, calling it a defence of democratic values.
“We defeated unnecessary intimidation by the authority of the state,” he said.
“We belong here. Nobody can intimidate us.”
He added that supporters were warned not to attend but insisted they showed courage by participating.
“We were told there would be violence, but we still came out. That is our victory,” he said.
In response, incumbent lawmaker Steve Fatoba dismissed claims of imposition, insisting the process reflected genuine support.
He thanked party leaders, including Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, for their backing.
“With what you see here, is this imposition?” he asked.
“No one was forced. The turnout speaks for itself.”
He urged unity ahead of future elections.
Also speaking, former Deputy Governor Professor Modupe Adelabu rejected imposition claims, describing the primary as open and democratic.
She said all aspirants had equal opportunity and members voted freely.
“The voice of the people is the voice of God,” she said.
“Everybody was free to contest and vote.”
