Antonia Ally, an aspirant seeking to represent the Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency in the House of Representatives under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has alleged that she is being pressured to step down for another contender ahead of the party’s primary election.
The APC had initially scheduled its nationwide House of Representatives primaries for Friday, but later postponed the exercise to Saturday.
In a statement issued on Friday, Ally expressed concern over what she described as the absence of clear communication from the party regarding her screening status ahead of the primary.
She stated that despite repeatedly seeking clarification from party officials on whether she had been screened or disqualified, she had not received any formal response.
According to her, rather than being officially informed of her status, she has continually faced calls to withdraw her ambition in favour of another aspirant.
“As an aspirant and loyal party member, I have repeatedly sought official clarification regarding my screening status and, where necessary, any reasons for disqualification, in line with due process and the principles of internal democracy,” she said.
“Rather than formal communication, I have consistently been urged to step down in favour of another aspirant. I respectfully state that I remain committed to the APC and to the democratic ideals our party represents.
“I also maintain my right to participate in a fair and transparent primary process as provided for under the party’s constitution and Nigeria’s electoral laws.”
Ally further noted that the administration of President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has encouraged greater female participation in politics and public service across the country.
She said it would be disappointing if such encouragement for women in politics was undermined at the grassroots level.
The APC aspirant explained that her decision to contest was motivated by a desire to serve her constituency and contribute meaningfully to the growth of both the constituency and the ruling party.
She expressed optimism that the party’s primary election would be conducted with fairness, transparency, and adherence to due process.
