A group of discontented youths stormed the Ondo State Secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akure, the state capital, on Saturday, demanding the resignation of the state party chairman, Ade Adetimehin.
The protesters placed palm fronds and a white coffin inscribed with the phrase “Adetimehin Must Go” in front of the new State Secretariat in Akure.
It is understood that the youths were angered by allegations that Adetimehin had called for military intervention in Nigeria. Efforts to reach the chairman for his response to the allegations and resignation calls were unsuccessful, as his phone was switched off.
In a related development, the Executive Council members of the APC in Ofosu Ward, Idanre Local Government, held an emergency meeting and subsequently announced Adetimehin’s suspension from the party, citing gross misconduct and statements allegedly capable of inciting anarchy.
The suspension letter was signed by the ward chairman, Olabisi Adepegba, alongside 14 other Exco members, including Vice Chairman Olabisi Oyewole and Secretary Olanrewaju Akinnuoye.
However, the APC’s Ondo State Director of Publicity, Steve Otaloro, issued a statement rejecting the demand for Adetimehin’s resignation.
“We wish to clarify that this action is not only constitutionally flawed but also undermines the principles of fairness and due process that our party upholds,” Otaloro stated.
He argued that proper procedures were not followed, rendering the suspension invalid.
“The decision made by the Ofosu Ward Exco of Idanre Local Government is inconsistent with the provisions of our party’s constitution and is, therefore, null and void. The reasons cited for this suspension lack substance and detail, suggesting that these actions may stem from personal grievances rather than legitimate leadership concerns,” he added.
Otaloro reiterated that Adetimehin remains the legitimate chairman of the APC in Ondo State.
“We affirm that Engr. Ade Adetimehin continues as the rightful Chairman of the APC in Ondo State. His leadership is vital as we prepare for the upcoming local government elections, where our focus remains on achieving victory for the party. We will not allow distractions from individuals with ulterior motives to derail our objectives.”
He called for peace within the party, assuring that those responsible for protocol breaches would be dealt with appropriately.
“We urge our loyal party members in Idanre Local Government to avoid any retaliatory actions against members of the Ofosu Exco involved in this illegitimate suspension. Rest assured, those responsible for this breach of protocol will face consequences at the appropriate time. For now, our focus remains on campaigning and ensuring success in the forthcoming local government elections,” he concluded.