Edo North APC Leader , Lawani Accused of Bias Over Early Endorsement of Reps Aspirant
By DADA AYOKHAI
The leadership of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Edo North, led by Alhaji Abdul-Ganiyu Lawani, popularly known as Abu Million, has been accused of bias ahead of the party’s primaries after openly adopting a House of Representatives aspirant.
Lawani was recently in Afuze, headquarters of Owan East LGA, alongside some party leaders, to witness the declaration of interest by Andrew Ijegbai, a former commissioner in the Okpebholo administration, for the Owan Federal Constituency seat.
APC leaders, particularly in the Owan axis, have expressed concern, alleging that the senatorial leader is denying other aspirants a level playing field by attending Ijegbai’s declaration and announcing zoning arrangements for the ticket.
Sources alleged that Lawani pressured other party leaders and LGA chairmen to attend the event while shunning other aspirants.
Those present included Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly; Alhaji Abdul-Ganiyu Lawani; Chief Ohimai, apex leader of Owan West; Hon. Eric Okaka, member of the Edo State House of Assembly; the executive chairmen of Owan East and Owan West; APC executives and ward leaders; as well as traditional rulers, chiefs, and members of palace councils.
In his remarks, Lawani declared that “there is no opposition in Owan.” He warned against any attempt to divide the people and insisted that the Owan Federal Constituency seat is zoned to Owan East, specifically Axis 1. He added that any move to alter the arrangement would be strongly resisted, while reaffirming his endorsement of Ijegbai.
Party members also faulted Speaker Agbebaku’s remarks at the event, where he reportedly claimed to be speaking for the governor. Agbebaku was quoted as saying he “conveyed strong assurances from the Governor, affirming full support for the project and reinforcing confidence in Ijegbai’s candidacy.”
High Chief Lucky Ohimai, described as the APC leader in Owan West LGA, openly endorsed Ijegbai and back support with a financial donation to bolster the campaign.
