An aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo/Odigbo Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives, Simi Fajemirokun-Ajayi, has dismissed claims questioning her popularity and grassroots acceptance ahead of the next general election.
The APC aspirant stated that contrary to narratives being pushed by political opponents, her political strength is deeply rooted within local communities across the constituency through years of direct engagement, empowerment initiatives and development-focused advocacy.
Speaking amid growing debates surrounding the APC House of Representatives primary process in Ondo State, Fajemirokun-Ajayi maintained that her relationship with constituents was built long before the election season.
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According to her, she has consistently remained visible within the constituency through youth empowerment programmes, educational support schemes, women-focused interventions and consultations with community stakeholders.
The policy strategist argued that the support she recorded during the APC primary process reflected genuine grassroots confidence rather than elite political influence. She further stressed that ordinary party members and local mobilisers remain the backbone of her political movement.
Fajemirokun-Ajayi also addressed conversations surrounding political godfatherism within the state, insisting that her campaign is driven by community support rather than endorsements from powerful political figures.
The development comes amid heightened tensions within the Ondo APC following controversies surrounding the conduct of the party’s House of Representatives primaries and allegations of candidate imposition in some constituencies.
She also spoke on challenges confronting women in Nigerian politics, noting that female aspirants often face intimidation, online harassment, financial barriers and stricter scrutiny compared to their male counterparts.
According to her, inclusion of more women in governance remains critical to strengthening democracy and improving national development outcomes.
The aspirant further defended women who speak out against misconduct and workplace harassment, saying accountability should not become a disadvantage for women seeking leadership positions.
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Political observers say the unfolding disputes within the Ondo APC could influence internal party stability ahead of future elections, especially as debates around transparency, consensus arrangements and grassroots legitimacy continue to dominate discussions within the state chapter.
What You Need to Know
- Simi Fajemirokun-Ajayi is contesting for the Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo/Odigbo Federal Constituency seat under the APC platform.
- She rejected criticisms suggesting she lacks sufficient grassroots structure and local political acceptance.
- The aspirant claims her support base was built through years of community development and stakeholder engagement.
- The controversy is unfolding amid wider tensions within the Ondo APC over alleged candidate imposition and disputed primary processes.
Implications
The dispute highlights growing internal pressure within the APC in Ondo State as aspirants compete for legitimacy and political relevance ahead of the elections. Allegations surrounding imposition and grassroots disconnect could deepen factional tensions if not properly managed.
The situation also reflects broader conversations around women’s participation in Nigerian politics, where female aspirants continue to face structural and cultural obstacles despite increasing political visibility.
Conclusion
As political activities intensify in Ondo State, grassroots credibility is emerging as a major factor shaping electoral narratives within the APC. For aspirants like Simi Fajemirokun-Ajayi, public perception, community engagement and internal party dynamics may ultimately determine political momentum ahead of the general elections.
Source: Vanguard
