According to a report by The Sun on Sunday, May 17, 2026, Kente stated that the exercise was completely disrupted because electoral materials were only distributed late the previous night.
He firmly asserted that this timeline directly contradicts video clips currently circulating on social media which suggest the election was successfully conducted.
Speaking with journalists on Sunday in Jalingo, Kente addressed the growing concerns surrounding the primary, noting that the narratives being pushed in some quarters do not reflect what actually happened on the ground.
To back his claims regarding the late movement of election materials, Kente revealed a timeline of events that unfolded into the early hours of Sunday morning.
He explained that he received a phone call from officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) around 5:00 AM on Sunday morning, informing him that the distribution of election materials was only just about to begin at Fastrack Hotel.
Kente pointed out the absurdity of the situation, adding that this official update came at a time when video clips allegedly showing the concluded election were already circulating widely.
Kente also used the briefing to clear the air regarding rumors of government interference or financial inducement, clarifying that he was completely unaware of any attempt by the government to influence or persuade him in any direction.
Addressing separate rumors regarding discussions he had with another key party stakeholder, Kente explained that while several issues were reviewed during their engagement, absolutely no agreement was reached regarding his withdrawal from the race.
Instead, the veteran politician noted that he reminded the stakeholder of previous political developments and asked for the party ticket himself.
“We discussed and agreed on a number of issues but there is nothing like me withdrawing for him. The issue came up and I reminded him of how we got to where we are.
I requested him to surrender the ticket to me because I am his elder brother and things have not been good in the last few years," Kente stated.
Moving forward, Kente indicated that both sides have agreed to continue consultations regarding the way forward for the party's primary process. He emphasized that his ambition is not driven by selfish desires, but by the mandate of the people who stand behind him.
“We agreed to consult further on the way forward. It wasn’t my decision to run and so I’ll have to brief my people and get feedback from them. Most of the people I’ve consulted insist that we should continue with the race,” he concluded.
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