Former Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on National Assembly Matters, Ibrahim Olarewaju, has refuted claims that he failed to resign his appointment before contesting for the All Progressives Congress ticket for Ekiti North Federal Constituency II in the May primary election.
His media office also maintained that his emergence as the APC candidate was a reflection of strong grassroots support, describing the victory as a product of a transparent and democratic process conducted in line with party guidelines.
In a statement issued by Moses Owoyemi on behalf of his media team in Ado Ekiti on Wednesday, the former lawmaker insisted that he complied fully with all legal and party requirements before participating in the contest.
“His (Olarewaju’s) resignation as SSA to the President on National Assembly Matters took effect on March 31, 2026, in compliance with the directive issued to political appointees seeking elective office. It is incorrect and misleading to suggest that Olarewaju’s participation in the primary election violated any provision of the law. Allegations, no matter how loudly repeated, do not amount to evidence.”
The statement further noted that the resignation was a matter of public record and could be verified through relevant government offices and media reports.
“Olarewaju’s record in legal practice and public service reflects integrity, transparency and strict adherence to the law. Those who know him understand that he has never pursued public office by circumventing established legal processes.
“The outcome of the APC primary election reflected the freely expressed will of accredited delegates across Moba, Ilejemeje and Ido-Osi Local Government Areas. Hon. Olarewaju emerged victorious.
“We commend party leaders, delegates and members who conducted themselves peacefully throughout the primary election and appreciate the aspirants who have demonstrated political maturity by accepting the outcome of the exercise in the overall interest of party unity.”
The media office added that Olarewaju remains focused on strengthening party unity and preparing for the 2027 general election, stressing that politics should be guided by fairness, ideas and respect for democratic processes.
“We, therefore, urge members of the public to disregard speculative claims that are unsupported by verifiable evidence. Our confidence remains in the internal democratic processes of the APC and in the ability of the appropriate party organs to address any legitimate concerns fairly, transparently and in accordance with the law.
“The APC in Ekiti North Federal Constituency II is bigger than the ambition of any individual. Now is the time to close ranks, strengthen party unity and work collectively towards delivering greater dividends of democracy to the people.”
It also urged aggrieved aspirants to channel complaints through the party’s internal dispute resolution mechanisms or legal avenues, rather than public statements that could fuel division.
