Senatorial aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo North, Alexander Oluremi Ajipe, has accused associates of Senator Jide Ipinsagba of allegedly intimidating and harassing his supporters in Akoko North Federal Constituency ahead of party primaries.

He is calling for a security investigation, insisting that the APC primary election must remain peaceful, transparent, and free of violence or coercion.

Allegations of intimidation ahead of primaries

In a strongly worded statement, Ajipe said reports reaching his camp suggest that some of his supporters have faced harassment linked to political actors within the constituency.

He warned that such actions, if proven, could undermine democratic participation within the ruling party.

“The APC’s primary process must proceed through democratic ballots, not threats or violence,” Ajipe said.

He urged security agencies to intervene swiftly to prevent further escalation.

Call for security intervention

Ajipe called on law enforcement authorities to investigate the allegations and ensure the safety of voters, delegates, and supporters during the build-up to the primaries.

He stressed that no citizen should be prevented from exercising political rights because of intimidation or fear.

According to him, perpetrators of violence or harassment must be held accountable under the law.

Legal debate over court intervention in party primaries

The aspirant also pushed back against claims that courts cannot intervene in internal party affairs, arguing that Nigerian law provides oversight where constitutional or procedural breaches occur.

He maintained that political parties are bound by their constitutions and electoral guidelines, which can be enforced by the judiciary when violated.

Legal analysts generally agree that while parties have autonomy, courts can intervene where due process is allegedly breached or where rights are affected.

Why it matters

Political primaries often determine who eventually emerges as candidates in Nigeria’s general elections.

Any allegations of intimidation or irregularities can affect public trust in the electoral process and deepen tensions within political parties.

For voters and party members in Ondo North, the outcome of these primaries will shape representation in the Senate and influence development priorities in the region.

What’s next

Attention is now on security agencies and APC leadership to respond to the allegations and ensure a peaceful nomination process.

Observers say the handling of the situation could set the tone for internal party democracy ahead of future elections in Ondo State.

Veteran Yoruba leader and Afenifere chieftain Reuben Fasoranti has been celebrated by political leaders and admirers across Nigeria as he marked his 100th birthday on Sunday.

In a tribute released to commemorate the centenary milestone, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa described Pa Fasoranti as an “extraordinary statesman, exemplary patriot, revered Awoist, and leader of Afenifere.”

The governor said Fasoranti’s life represented decades of service, sacrifice, and commitment to democratic values, Yoruba unity, and national development.

A century of influence in Nigerian politics

Pa Fasoranti is widely regarded as one of the most influential elder statesmen in southwestern Nigeria. He has remained a prominent voice in Yoruba socio-political affairs and democratic advocacy for decades.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said Fasoranti played a major role in the movement that led to the creation of Ondo State in 1976.

“As one of the founding fathers of Ondo State, Pa Fasoranti played a historic role in the agitation and movement that culminated in the creation of our dear state in 1976,” the governor said.

He added that the elder statesman’s sacrifices helped shape the identity and development of the state.

The governor also praised Fasoranti’s role in education, democratic struggles, and the preservation of Yoruba cultural values.

“His courage, wisdom, simplicity, and steadfast commitment to justice continue to inspire generations of leaders,” Aiyedatiwa stated.

Why Fasoranti matters in Nigeria’s political history

Fasoranti has long been associated with progressive politics in Nigeria and is seen by supporters as one of the ideological custodians of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s political philosophy.

Political analysts say his influence has extended beyond the South-West region, especially during periods of national political tension and calls for restructuring in Nigeria.

His leadership of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, has also made him a key figure in conversations around federalism, national unity, and governance reforms.

Governor prays for peace and longevity

In his goodwill message, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the elder statesman as a symbol of “honour, resilience, and selfless service.”

“At one hundred, Baba remains a symbol of honour, resilience, and selfless service. His life embodies the finest ideals of the Omoluabi ethos and the progressive tradition for which our people are renowned,” he said.

The governor prayed for continued peace, sound health, and strength for the nonagenarian leader.

“May his enduring legacy continue to guide our state and nation towards unity, peace, and lasting prosperity.”

Public reactions and national significance

Across social media, political supporters, traditional leaders, and public commentators have described Fasoranti’s 100th birthday as a rare national milestone.

Many Nigerians praised his longevity and continued influence in public discourse, particularly his reputation for discipline, simplicity, and consistency in political advocacy.

Some observers also noted that the celebration comes at a time when Nigeria faces growing debates over governance, economic reforms, and national cohesion — issues Fasoranti has frequently spoken about throughout his public life.

What’s next

Events marking Fasoranti’s centenary are expected to continue across Ondo State and parts of the South-West, with tributes from political leaders, traditional rulers, and civic groups.

The celebrations are also likely to renew discussions about the legacy of elder statesmen in shaping Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Reuben Fasoranti has been celebrated across Nigeria as he marks his 100th birthday, with tributes pouring in from political leaders, activists, and supporters who describe him as one of the country’s enduring voices of democracy and Yoruba unity.

Among those who paid tribute was Alexander Oluremi Ajipe, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State and a leading aspirant for the Ondo North Senatorial District ticket.

In a statement released on Sunday, Ajipe joined Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other Nigerians in celebrating the elder statesman’s century-long life and contributions to national development.

He described Fasoranti as “a living testament to integrity, discipline, and principled leadership”.

“From his early days in public service to his courageous battles against military dictatorship and his steadfast advocacy for Yoruba unity and national development, Baba has remained a beacon of the Omoluabi ethos and Awoist ideals,” Ajipe said.

The APC chieftain added that Fasoranti’s contributions to democracy and the progress of Ondo State continue to inspire a new generation of political leaders.

Why Fasoranti’s 100th Birthday Matters

Fasoranti is widely regarded as one of the most influential Yoruba socio-political leaders in modern Nigerian history.

The elder statesman rose to national prominence through his involvement in progressive politics linked to the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s political ideology and later became a leading figure in the pro-democracy movement during Nigeria’s military era.

As leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere, Fasoranti has remained an influential voice on national unity, restructuring, democratic governance, and regional development.

Political analysts say his longevity and continued relevance reflect the lasting influence of elder statesmen in Nigeria’s political culture.

Ajipe Prays for More Years of Wisdom and Strength

Ajipe also used the occasion to pray for Fasoranti’s continued good health and guidance.

“We pray that the Almighty continues to strengthen his body, sharpen his mind, and deepen his spiritual counsel, so that he may remain a source of guidance, stability, and moral authority to our party, our youths, and our people,” he said.

He further prayed for peace, comfort, and unity within Fasoranti’s family and said Nigeria should continue to draw inspiration from the elder statesman’s life of service and sacrifice.

“May your legacy live on in the hearts of our people and in the policies of a progressive, united, and prosperous Nigeria,” Ajipe added.

Political Significance Ahead of Future Elections

The public tribute also carries political significance within Ondo State politics, where endorsements and symbolic alignments with respected Yoruba leaders often shape public perception ahead of electoral contests.

Observers say associating with Fasoranti’s legacy could strengthen Ajipe’s appeal among progressive political supporters in Ondo North, especially within APC circles.

Political commentators note that Fasoranti’s reputation for discipline and principled leadership continues to resonate strongly among older voters and younger Nigerians seeking credible leadership models.

Public Reactions and Wider Tributes

Across social media, Nigerians described Fasoranti’s 100th birthday as a rare milestone for a man many credit with defending democratic values during turbulent political periods.

Some users praised his consistency in advocating peaceful dialogue and regional unity, while others highlighted his influence on generations of Yoruba political leaders.

Leaders from different political and socio-cultural groups are expected to continue paying tribute throughout the week as celebrations continue in Ondo State and beyond.