The House of Representatives primary election of the All Progressives Congress in Ward 10, Ado Local Government Area of Ekiti State, descended into chaos on Saturday after violent clashes erupted among supporters of rival aspirants.
The exercise, which took place at the Fajuyi Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, was eventually suspended by electoral officials, who declared the process inconclusive following the disturbance.
The primary featured two contenders, Olushola Fatoba and Tope Ogunleye, popularly known as RST, whose supporters had arrived early at the venue ahead of the commencement of voting.
Tension reportedly escalated when suspected thugs invaded the venue armed with canes and firearms, causing panic among party members and delegates.
Witnesses alleged that the attackers attempted to intimidate supporters loyal to Ogunleye and disrupt the exercise before voting eventually began under a tense atmosphere.
Despite the unrest, supporters of Ogunleye reportedly remained at the venue, chanting songs in support of their preferred candidate as the process continued.
Sources at the scene claimed Ogunleye appeared to enjoy wider support among party faithful before violence broke out.
The situation later degenerated into a free-for-all after rival groups allegedly engaged in clashes, forcing officials to halt the exercise abruptly.
During the violence, an agent of Ogunleye identified simply as Mr Sunday was reportedly assaulted.
Another supporter, Mr Femi Ogunleye, was said to have been beaten and dispossessed of his Tecno Spark 9 phone, while Mrs Oluwaseun Osamuwa allegedly sustained injuries after being attacked and robbed of her Apple smart wristwatch.
The injured victims were subsequently taken to hospital for treatment.
As of the time of filing this report, no winner had emerged from the primary election.
The incident has renewed concerns over political violence and intimidation during party primaries, with observers urging security agencies and party leaders to ensure accountability and guarantee credible electoral processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.