Concerned stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State have rejected alleged moves to impose consensus candidates, warning that such a strategy could destabilise the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued after a press conference held at the Otunba Subomi Balogun Hall, University of Ibadan, where party members expressed deep concern over recent developments within the state chapter.
The stakeholders—among them Akinleye Olusegun Bishop, Aare Saheed Olayiwola, Adetoyese Akeem Ishola, Asiwaju Adekola Mudashiru, Mogaji Abiola Oyeyemi, Inaolaji Akinloye, Asoludero Banji A. Banji, Ojo Oluwaseun, Otunba Femi Awogboro, and Teslim Kunle—warned that attempts to sideline due process could fracture the party’s structure.
In the communiqué addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC national leadership, the group cautioned that the party risks internal disintegration if urgent steps are not taken to address grievances.
They specifically rejected what they described as moves by “unscrupulous elements” to impose consensus candidates, declaring a meeting reportedly held on May 1 in Ibadan as null, void, and unacceptable.
According to the stakeholders, the meeting did not represent the interests of genuine party members but was allegedly driven by personal and financial motives.
“The actions of these political dealers are condemnable and constitute a direct assault on internal democracy,” the communiqué stated.
The group called for strict adherence to the APC constitution and the Electoral Act, advocating direct primary elections as the most credible method for candidate selection.
While not completely opposed to consensus arrangements, the stakeholders stressed that such must be based on unanimous agreement, written consent of all aspirants, and conducted transparently without external interference.
On party discipline, they demanded immediate sanctions against members accused of anti-party activities, including possible expulsion, warning that actions capable of undermining unity would be resisted.
They also raised concerns over possible defections, particularly that of Senator Teslim Folarin, noting that such a move could weaken the party’s chances in future elections.
The stakeholders urged the national leadership to act proactively to maintain unity and retain key figures, stressing that the APC remains a viable alternative to the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde.
On national appointments, the group acknowledged the nomination of Joseph Tegbe as Minister of Power but advised him to focus on his federal responsibilities and avoid actions that could destabilise the party in Oyo State.
They further called for inclusiveness in party affairs, urging leaders to recognise and involve founding members in decision-making processes.
Criticising what they described as the marginalisation of loyal members, the stakeholders insisted that candidate selection must be based on merit, competence, acceptability, and electability.
Reaffirming their loyalty to the APC, the group urged party leaders to act with urgency to strengthen internal democracy and ensure cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections.
Copies of the communiqué were also sent to prominent party figures, including Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, Chief Iyiola Oladokun, Mrs Florence Ajimobi, Senator Buraimo Yusuff, Senator Femi Lanlehin, and Senator Soji Akanbi.
