Emmanuel Clement
Celebration erupted across Somolu Constituency II after Hon. Samuel Olufemi Apata secured a resounding victory in the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Assembly primary election, further strengthening his political standing and widespread grassroots support within the constituency.
The primary election witnessed impressive participation from party faithful, community stakeholders, youth groups, market representatives, women groups, and loyal supporters who turned out massively to support the lawmaker’s re-election ambition, turning the exercise into what many described as a strong display of political dominance and party unity.
From the early hours of the exercise, supporters openly expressed confidence in Hon. Apata, describing him as a reliable representative, accessible leader, and dependable voice for the people of Somolu Constituency II.
Many party members noted that his close relationship with residents and consistent grassroots engagement played a major role in the overwhelming support he received during the primary election.
Investigator news reports that official results from the primary election showed Hon. Apata dominated across the various wards:
Ward A: Apata – 564 votes, Atura – 200 votes, Ali Balogun – 76 votes
Ward I: Apata – 892 votes, Atura – 241 votes, Ali Balogun – 330 votes
Ward G: Apata – 907 votes, Atura – 108 votes, Ali Balogun – 65 votes
Ward J: Apata – 1,096 votes, Atura – 97 votes, Ali Balogun – 81 votes
Ward K: Apata – 3,385 votes, Atura – Nil, Ali Balogun – Nil
Ward L: Apata – 2,287 votes, Atura – 125 votes, Ali Balogun – 168 votes
The final results recorded:
Samuel Apata – 9,081 votes
Atura – 814 votes
Ali Balogun – 677 votes
Political observers described the margin of victory as a clear indication of Hon. Apata’s growing influence within the APC structure in Somolu, noting that the outcome reflected both his political strength and the confidence party delegates have in his leadership capacity.
Unlike the tension and uncertainty witnessed in some constituencies during the APC primaries, Somolu Constituency II experienced a peaceful and coordinated process, with party members united in support of their preferred candidate.
Immediately after the official declaration of the results, jubilant supporters flooded different parts of the constituency in celebration, singing solidarity songs, waving party flags, and chanting in honour of the victorious lawmaker.
Several roads within the constituency reportedly witnessed spontaneous celebrations as supporters hailed the victory as a triumph for continuity and effective representation.
Many APC members and political observers described the outcome as a reflection of the trust and confidence the people continue to place in Hon. Samuel Apata’s leadership, accessibility, and commitment to grassroots development.
Party stakeholders also commended delegates and leaders for ensuring a transparent, peaceful, and orderly exercise that further strengthened unity within the APC. Some leaders within the party expressed optimism that the outcome of the primary election would further consolidate the APC’s strength in Somolu Constituency II ahead of the general election.
Residents and supporters also praised Hon. Apata for his contributions toward community development, youth empowerment, and consistent interaction with constituents, insisting that his victory was well deserved based on his track record and performance.
The victory is widely regarded as a major political boost for Hon. Samuel Apata ahead of the general election, with supporters expressing optimism that his continued representation will attract more development projects, improved grassroots empowerment initiatives, and effective leadership to Somolu Constituency II.
Special recognition was equally given to the Executive Chairman of Bariga LCDA, Hon. Bukola Omope Adedeji, for her support, leadership role, and commitment throughout the primary election process.