Efon political leaders reject APC commissioner Karounwi’s attempt to impose chairmanship candidate, calling for stakeholder consultation
Political leaders in Efon Local Government have condemned moves by Ekiti State Physical Planning Commissioner, Karounwi Oladapo, to unilaterally endorse a chairmanship candidate on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform.
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The controversial endorsement of aspirant Ifetade Ola, reportedly arranged without consulting key stakeholders, has sparked alarm among prominent party figures including Chief Joseph Alake, Prof. Adio Folayan, Elder Odunayo Ategbero, Victor Kolade, Chief Joel Omoniyi, and Bode Adetunji.
Other respected leaders, such as Chief Bode Olayinka, Chief Dele Jeje, Olaitan Olayinka, and Afolabi Ige, dissociated themselves from the move.
A community leader, Ajiroba Patrick Ojo, decried what he described as an “arrogant and undemocratic attitude,” urging Governor Biodun Oyebanji to intervene and convene a stakeholders’ meeting to prevent chaos in the local government.
In a statement titled “When men dare to play God,” Ojo criticised Karounwi for acting as “the singular authority” in selecting candidates without involving the traditional council, Efon Development League, and the majority of APC leaders.
He warned that such actions could destabilise the community and recalled previous political disputes that had led to the loss of key institutions.
“The cold silence of the traditional council and the broader Efon Alaaye community demonstrates disapproval for this behaviour,” Ojo said, adding that a stakeholders’ meeting would soon be called to resolve the crisis.
Karounwi responded to the criticisms, insisting that his actions fall within his party mandate.
He urged Ojo to focus on forming alternative political options if dissatisfied, stating, “Election time is still far, and there are many opposition parties from where concerned citizens can showcase preferred candidates without causing disharmony.”
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The standoff highlights rising tensions within Ekiti State APC ahead of the council polls, with both sides calling for respect, consultation, and democratic processes in candidate selection.
