Adeboje Lukman
The All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election ended in a decisive victory for Senator Sarafa Ali, who secured the party’s ticket after polling 578,143 votes in the keenly contested exercise.
The primary, which witnessed massive participation from party members across the state, reportedly recorded close to one million votes, making it one of the largest APC primary elections in recent times.
Senator Buhari finished second in the contest with 37,265 votes, while former minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu, garnered 19,193 votes.
The announcement of the results sparked widespread celebrations among supporters of Sarafa Ali, as party faithful and political associates gathered in different parts of the state to rejoice over his emergence as the APC candidate ahead of the forthcoming election.
Party leaders and stakeholders commended members for the peaceful conduct displayed during the exercise, describing the primary as transparent, competitive, and successful.
Political observers said the overwhelming margin recorded by Sarafa Ali reflects his growing influence within the party and the confidence many members have in his leadership.
Speaking shortly after the declaration of results, Sarafa Ali expressed appreciation to delegates, supporters, and party leaders for the trust reposed in him. He promised to work for the unity and progress of the APC while calling on other aspirants and their supporters to join hands with him ahead of the main election.
He further pledged to justify the confidence placed in him by party members and to focus on policies and programmes that would promote development and good governance if elected.
The outcome of the APC primary is expected to shape political activities in the state as parties intensify preparations for the forthcoming governorship election.