Aspirant says only official party declaration carries authority, appeals for discipline amid social media speculation
Hon. Muhammed Yahaya Dongo (Ozi Dongo), an aspirant for the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives ticket for Okene/Ogori-Magongo Federal Constituency, has cautioned his supporters against engaging with what he described as misleading posts and unverified reports circulating online concerning the recently concluded primary election.
In a statement issued at the weekend, Dongo said his attention had been drawn to claims spreading across Facebook, WhatsApp, and other social media platforms, some of which sought to prematurely declare outcomes before the conclusion of official processes and a formal announcement by the party.
“While I acknowledge the enthusiasm and concerns of our supporters, I am aware that some individuals have taken to social media to prematurely declare outcomes before the completion of the official processes and the formal announcement by the party,” he said.
Dongo appealed directly to his supporters, citing their commitment and loyalty to his campaign, and urged them to uphold what he called the discipline, maturity, and respect for due process that have defined the movement.
“I therefore appeal to all my supporters to refrain from engaging with, sharing, or reacting to unverified information circulating online,” he said, warning that rumours or unofficial reports could create unnecessary tension and distract from the principles guiding the campaign.
The aspirant expressed confidence in the integrity of the party’s established procedures, stressing that only the official declaration from the appropriate organs of the APC carries authority.
“I call on everyone to remain calm, peaceful, and patient as we await the official announcement. In politics, moments like this require wisdom, restraint, and unity. We must not be carried away by premature celebrations or unfounded claims,” he added.
Dongo further emphasised that the party’s interest superseded individual ambition, and called for unity behind the eventual outcome to strengthen the party’s chances in the general election.
“We must remember that our party is greater than any individual ambition. When the official result is declared, I expect all of us to remain united and committed to supporting the collective vision of our party and ensuring victory in the general election,” he said.
He maintained that until the party officially speaks, all other claims remain unofficial and should be treated with caution, while thanking his supporters for their loyalty and resilience throughout the process.
