Primary election: Hoodlums attack, injure APC leaders in Somolu

Some senior figures of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Somolu, Lagos State, were reportedly attacked, injured and embarrassed by suspected hoodlums during the party’s primary election on Saturday.

The attackers were said to have invaded polling centres in Ward A and Ward B in Somolu, targeting prominent party leaders who were present at the venues during the exercise.

Those affected were identified as Mr Ajibade Ajayi, a former APC chairman of Ward D in Somolu; Mr Primate Abraham, a former Ward B APC chairman; Mr Yomi Olubamide, former Somolu Local Government APC chairman; and Mr Samuel Oluyida, also a former Ward B APC chairman.

Following the incident, the Chairman of Somolu Local Government, Mr Abdulateef Asimi, expressed displeasure over the attack, describing it as unfortunate and unacceptable within the council area.

He said the council would work with security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

According to him, Somolu remains a peaceful local government, and efforts had earlier been made to sensitise party members on the need for calm and orderly conduct during the primaries.

“It is, however, saddening to witness such an ugly development. We are on top of the situation and will do everything humanly possible to ensure peace and stability across all wards in the council area,” he said.

A police officer at the scene, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the situation had been brought under control and that normalcy had been restored.

An eyewitness, Mr Tunde Adeyemi, said the assailants stormed the polling units unexpectedly and began attacking party leaders and supporters, triggering panic among participants at the venue.

Another witness, Mrs Bamidele Onabamiro, condemned the violence, calling on party members to embrace peace and political tolerance.

She stressed that violence should not be allowed to undermine the credibility of the electoral process and urged security agencies to strengthen surveillance and protection for participants during future political activities in the area.