As the 2025 bye-election for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency holds this Saturday, aspirants from the All Progressives Congress (APC) have intensified efforts on rallying behind their party’s standard-bearer, Hon. ‘Wale Olatunji Murphy.

In a recent radio programme, Dende Oro, hosted by veteran broadcaster, Alhaji Abolade Salami on Fresh 105.9 FM, frontline aspirants from the party shared their perspectives.

Hon. Wasiu Emiola, a veteran politician and seasoned educationist, remarked, “Almighty God is rewarding Murphy now after he was unjustly rigged out by the PDP in 2003 when he contested under the Alliance for Democracy (AD). The PDP candidate, Sarumi, was already crying over his loss before the manipulation took place.”

Emiola, who served as education secretary during the military regime, emphasised, “I urge all teachers and pensioners to support APC and Murphy.” He criticised the PDP’s representation, claiming, “Their candidates have failed Ibadan North Constituency 1 from 2019 to 2023. Why promote someone who lacks the ability to represent our people?”

Hon. Adebayo Taofik Aderogba, mni, a seasoned administrator and labour unionist, noted that while there are 20 aspirants for the House of Representatives ticket, unity is essential. “Once the party makes a choice, all must support the candidate. It’s Murphy’s turn now, and it could be someone else’s tomorrow.”

Hon. Monsuru Adeyemo (Socrates), a communication consultant and grassroots politician, praised Murphy, describing him as a “struggle-tested leader” with the experience needed for impactful projects. He stated, “Our party is democratic, unlike the PDP, which is monocratic. In the PDP, dissent is stifled, while in the APC, we embrace freedom of expression.”

Socrates further asserted, “Murphy is a gallant leader, akin to Akinremi Jagaban. He received Akinremi’s endorsement before the latter’s passing, indicating their shared vision of pro-people leadership for the constituency.”

Criticising the PDP, Socrates added, “The opposition has accepted an unpopular candidate imposed by their leaders. The people of Ibadan North must reject this visionless candidate and the party that has failed them.”

Publicity Secretary Olawale Sadare emphasised that the PDP’s violent tactics have contributed to voter apathy in the past. “However, the people are ready to vote for APC this time, driven by the legacy of Akinremi and the shortcomings of the current administration,” he stated.

“The constituents will not waste their votes; they will choose APC and Murphy as their representatives.” Sadare submitted.