Ex-Tinubu aide denies breaking rules in APC primary win

Ibrahim Olarewaju, who previously served as Senior Special Assistant to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on National Assembly Matters, has refuted claims that he failed to resign his position before contesting for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the Ekiti North Federal Constituency II seat. His media office asserted that Olarewaju's win in the primary election was a direct result of his long-standing commitment and accessibility to the people.

“

His (Olarewaju’s) resignation as SSA to the President on National Assembly Matters took effect on March 31, 2026, in compliance with the directive issued to political appointees seeking elective office.

According to a statement released by Moses Owoyemi on behalf of Olarewaju's media team, the former lawmaker "fully complied with all constitutional, legal and party requirements before participating in the primary election." The statement specified that Olarewaju's resignation "took effect on March 31, 2026, in compliance with the directive issued to political appointees seeking elective office." Owoyemi emphasized that suggestions of a violation are "incorrect and misleading."

“

It is incorrect and misleading to suggest that Olarewaju’s participation in the primary election violated any provision of the law.

The media office addressed reports alleging non-compliance, stating, "This (his resignation) is a matter of public record and can be independently verified through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, as well as media reports." They highlighted Olarewaju's career in legal practice and public service as reflective of integrity and adherence to the law, asserting he would not pursue office by circumventing legal processes.

“

This (his resignation) is a matter of public record and can be independently verified through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, as well as media reports.

The statement concluded by affirming that Olarewaju's victory in the APC primary reflected the "freely expressed will of accredited delegates" from the Moba, Ilejemeje, and Ido-Osi Local Government Areas. The media office also commended party leaders and delegates for their conduct and expressed appreciation for the maturity shown by other aspirants in accepting the outcome for the sake of party unity. Olarewaju is reportedly focused on uniting APC stakeholders and preparing for the 2027 general election.

“

Olarewaju’s record in legal practice and public service reflects integrity, transparency and strict adherence to the law. Those who know him understand that he has never pursued public office by circumventing established legal processes.