Why Osun West Bye-election APC’s Primaries Postponed

By Shina Abubakar,

The Screening/Election Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Osun West Senatorial District by-election has said the reason for the postponement of the primaries by 24 hours was to allow the National Working Committee of the party to consider the report of the appeal panel on the disqualification of Senator Mudashir Hussein, one of the aspirants.

Hon. Sanusi Rikiji-led screening committee had disqualified Senator Hussein on the ground that he has failed to resigned his appointment as a commissioner in the state before signifying intention to contest under the APC, leaving the younger brother of the late Senator Isiaka Adeleke, Ademola Adeleke as an unopposed candidate of the party.

The appeal panel of the party confirmed the decision of the party.

At a press conference in Osogbo on Monday morning, Chairman of the Screening Committee, Rt. Hon. Sanusi Rikiji disclosed that the disqualification of Senator Mudashir Hussein was due to incurable defect to the guidelines of the party and the Nigeria’s constitution.

He said the committee had no personal grudge against any of the screened aspirants, but discharged its duty in line with its mandate and strict adherence to the provision of the constitution and party guidelines.

He also hinted that the venue of the primary election would be the Distinguished Event Centre located along Osogbo-Iwo road in Egbedore Local Government Council area of the state.

According to him, the decision on the choice of the venue was due to security situation in Iwo as a result of a recent armed robbery attack in the town and the assurance from the state government to provide adequate security at the chosen venue.