Gunshots Disrupt APC Senatorial Primary in Ondo as Delegates, Journalists Flee in Panic

Chaos erupted on Monday during the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary for Ondo Central in Akure, Ondo State, as sporadic gunshots forced delegates and journalists to flee for safety, disrupting the exercise midway.

The incident occurred at Ward 5, Ebenezer African Church Gunshots Disrupt APC Senatorial Primary in Ondo as Delegates, Journalists Flee in Panic School, Amudipe Street, Akure, which also serves as the polling unit of the incumbent senator, Adeniyi Adegbonmire, who is seeking re-election.

Eyewitnesses said panic spread rapidly after gunshots rang out within the vicinity, forcing participants to abandon the venue as security collapsed momentarily into confusion.

The primary featured Adegbonmire, Taiwo Fasoranti—reportedly aligned with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa—and Olumuyiwa Adu as major contenders for the APC ticket.

Following the disruption, Senator Adegbonmire dismissed the exercise as invalid, describing it as a “complete charade.” He alleged that armed men stormed the venue when it became clear he was leading in the vote count.

“My supporters were counted first and they were over 360. When they moved to count the next line and it became obvious what was happening, thugs invaded the venue, shot into the air and even fired at my car,” he alleged.

He further claimed that his vehicle was struck by bullets and accused unidentified groups of intimidating voters in other parts of the district to suppress turnout for rival aspirants.

Another aspirant, Olumuyiwa Adu, also rejected the process, alleging that armed youths threatened delegates and attempted to influence the outcome in favour of a preferred candidate.

However, Taiwo Fasoranti dismissed the allegations, insisting that the exercise was conducted peacefully and in line with party guidelines. He expressed confidence that he would emerge victorious once official results are announced.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over internal party security and the credibility of primary elections in the state, as stakeholders await an official reaction from the APC leadership.