Honourable Raheem Ajulo Opin, the lawmaker representing Ekiti/Isin/Irepodun/Oke-Ero Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has lost his bid to secure another term after failing to win the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election held on Saturday.

The APC ticket for the constituency was won by Hon. Abolarin Ganiyu Gabriel, who emerged victorious after polling the highest number of votes across the four local government areas that make up the federal constituency.

The primary election took place across the 42 wards in Ekiti, Isin, Irepodun and Oke-Ero local government areas, drawing significant participation from party members and stakeholders within Kwara South.

Results from the exercise showed Abolarin maintaining a strong lead during the collation process, with Dr. Toba Oloyede also recording notable support from delegates.

The incumbent lawmaker, Opin, trailed behind as voting results emerged from the various wards.

Opin’s defeat is regarded by political observers as a major development within the APC in Kwara State, ending his roughly decade-long stay in the National Assembly.

Supporters of Abolarin celebrated the outcome across parts of the constituency shortly after the official announcement of results, describing his emergence as a turning point for the party ahead of the next general election.

In his acceptance speech, Abolarin thanked party leaders, delegates and supporters for backing his ambition, promising to provide inclusive leadership and effective representation if elected in the general polls.

He also appealed to other aspirants and their supporters to work together for the success of the APC in the forthcoming elections.

The outcome of the primary is expected to shape political alignments within Kwara South as preparations for the next electoral cycle continue.