Senator Ayo Arise has voiced strong opposition to any imposition of candidates within the All Progressives Congress (APC), emphasizing that a fair primary election is the only legitimate way to select the party's senatorial candidate for Ekiti.
During an interview with ARISE News on Saturday, Arise clearly stated his position: "I've only told them I’m not agreeing to any crooked endorsement without going into the primaries." He downplayed suggestions of a serious internal conflict within the ruling party, asserting that any disagreements are centered on candidate selection processes rather than fundamental divisions.
"There is no quarrel in my party," Arise remarked, while acknowledging that the nomination procedures have indeed sparked debate. "But I know there’s been a lot of controversy and questions on the issue of the position of INEC on the process for nominating candidates for election for 2027 offices."
The former legislator criticized certain party figures who are reportedly attempting to circumvent established procedures through endorsements, stressing that the party's rules are unambiguous.
"The terms are very clear. It’s either consensus or direct primaries," he asserted.
Arise disclosed that he has faced pressure to step aside for the incumbent senator, Senator Cyril Fasuyi. However, he has rejected these overtures, advocating for an equitable contest.
"All I told them is, look, it’s only the president that can tell me to step down, and no other person," he stated.
He further encouraged his rival to engage in a direct competition, saying: "Let us go to the primaries. Let’s test our popularity there."
Arise reiterated his commitment to a democratic process, challenging those advocating for endorsements to allow the electorate make the final decision. "So let them defeat me on the field. And I will have no problems, you know."
He also refuted claims that former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi is supporting his aspirations, characterizing himself as a self-sufficient individual financially.
"For anyone to say somebody is sponsoring me, that means that person is giving me money to run," he explained. "I have been a nice city person, and I’ve been largely blessed. I’m not a hungry man."
Furthermore, he questioned the logic behind calls for endorsements, arguing that such practices contradict democratic principles and the party's own regulations.
"Endorsement is not part of what INEC has suggested. It’s only consensus," he pointed out, clarifying that when consensus cannot be reached, primaries must be held.
Shifting focus to national governance, Arise defended the performance of the APC-led federal government, expressing confidence in President Bola Tinubu's leadership amidst prevailing economic and security challenges.
"This is the only president in my lifetime that I know, when there is a problem, is looking for solutions. Nobody’s a magician," he commented.
Arise highlighted his previous tenure in the Senate as a testament to his capability to deliver for his constituents.
"When you talk about infrastructural development, I went to the Senate, I improved the life of my people, and I’m very proud of that," he said.
He maintained that his political ambitions are motivated by a desire to serve rather than personal enrichment.
"They are voting for my integrity, nothing more."
Regarding the political landscape in Ekiti, Arise cautioned that efforts to force candidates could have adverse consequences, particularly given the complex political interests leading up to future elections.
"Why would you select somebody who is running against other people as your DG? For what?" he questioned.
Reaffirming his firm stance, he insisted that the party must strictly adhere to democratic procedures, warning that any attempt to circumvent primaries would be strongly opposed.
"If you by force put anybody on me, and I’ve made myself clear that I’m not agreeing to any kangaroo endorsement, then we will now go and look at the terms of the INEC policy and what the position says."
Comments (0)
You must be logged in to comment.
Be the first to comment on this article!