During the governorship primary election at Ugbo Ward 3, in the Ilaje council area of Ondo state, the Health Commissioner, Dr. Banjo Ajaka, was attacked by party members for allegedly hiding election result sheets. The incident resulted in Ajaka being beaten to a stupor and subsequently rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
According to an eyewitness, the APC members demanded the result sheets and assaulted Ajaka after the electoral officers indicated that he was withholding the sheets. The witness described the scene as chaotic, with supporters of Chief Olusola Oke expressing anger over the situation.
Ajaka confirmed the incident, stating that he was wrongly accused of withholding the result sheets. He explained that while attempting to clarify the situation to the party members, they attacked him.
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In his words, Ajaka said, “I was trying to explain to them, but they descended on me.” The commissioner emphasized that he was unjustly targeted by the party members during the confrontation.
The altercation underscores the tension and unrest that marred the primary election process in the state. The incident reflects the heightened emotions and stakes involved in the political contest for the party’s ticket.
The assault on Ajaka highlights the challenges faced by election officials and party members in ensuring a smooth and transparent electoral process. Such incidents undermine the credibility and integrity of the electoral exercise.
In the aftermath of the attack, Ajaka’s condition and the fallout from the incident remained a focal point of discussion among political observers and stakeholders in the state. The incident raises concerns about the safety and security of individuals involved in the political process.