By Desire Emmanuel
Some leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Somolu, Lagos State, were on Saturday, May 16, attacked by hoodlums during the party’s House of Representatives primary election.
The hoodlums invaded Ward A and Ward B polling centres in Somolu and attacked some leaders sighted at the venues during the exercise.
The affected leaders that were attacked included Mr Ajibade Ajayi, former APC chairman of Ward D in Somolu, and Mr Sunday Abraham, former APC chairman of Ward B in Somolu.
Others were Mr Yomi Olubamide, former Somolu APC LGA chairman, and Mr Samuel Oluyida, former APC chairman of Ward B in Somolu.
An eyewitness, Mr Tunde Adeyemi, said the attackers stormed the polling centres unexpectedly and began assaulting party leaders and supporters, causing panic among party members at the venue.
Another eyewitness, Mrs Bamidele Onabamiro, condemned the incident and urged party faithful to embrace peace and political tolerance.
She said violence should not be allowed to undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
Onabamiro also appealed to security agencies to intensify surveillance and ensure adequate protection for party members and electoral officials during subsequent political activities in the area.
Chairman of Somolu Local Government Area of the state, Mr Abdulateef Asimi, who confirmed the attacks, expressed disappointment and described them as unfortunate.
Asimi said the council authorities, in collaboration with security agencies, would investigate the matter with a view to apprehending those responsible for the attacks.
“My council is known for peace and orderliness, and I have sensitised APC members and supporters on the need to maintain decorum throughout the primary election process.
“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 one of the scenes, who pleaded anonymity, said the situation was later brought under control, adding that normalcy had been restored in the affected area.
