The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji has urged the party to provide a level playing field for all the aspirants ahead of the October 27 All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election.
Oyebanji made the call while speaking with newsmen shortly after he appeared before the APC Screening committee headed by Hon. Tunji Olawuyi in Abuja.
The Governor, who was the first to participate in the screening exercise, arrived at the venue at about 10.00 am and was ushered into the conference room, where his credentials were screened by members of the panel.
The screening session lasted about 15 minutes behind closed doors.
Oyebanji, while speaking with newsmen after the screening stressed that this would help all the aspirants that have indicated interests and scaled through the screening process to enable them sell their manifestos to party members.
He expressed confidence in the ability of the screening committee to deliver a credible process and result.
The Governor also expressed confidence in the ability of the committee that would conduct the primary election to do an excellent job in tandem with party guidelines.
He stated: “I must commend the APC for putting this structure in place. It will save the party from a lot of problems. I have absolute confidence that the party will get it right.”
“This is only the screening stage. Next comes the appeal committee, the Congress committee, then the election proper.
“Whoever emerges must be supported, because it is not just about the aspirants, it is about returning our party to power and serving the people.”
Oyebanji described the process as fair and transparent, noting that it would bring a credible result.
The panel has Tuesday and Wednesday to screen the four aspirants in the race for the party’s ticket.
Some party leaders, National Assembly members and political associates accompanied Oyebanji to the venue of the screening exercise.
They include: the Chairman, SouthWest Development Commission (SWDC), Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi; Senator Yemi Adaramodu( Ekiti South) , Senator Cyril Fasuyi (Ekiti North), Speaker Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Aribasoye; Hon Kolawole Akinlayo, and AVM Niyi Ojuawo (rtd).
Others are: Hon Wunmi Ogunlola, Hon Bimbo Daramola, Hon Ibrahim Olanrewaju, Prince Wole Ajakaiye , Mr Yinka Oyebode, Hon Segun Dipe, and Engr Dipo Bamisaye of EKSU Alumni Association’s Support Group, among others.