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Ahead of the 2027 general elections a coalition of party stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State on Tuesday rejected alleged moves to impose candidates through consensus, warning that such a strategy could trigger a crisis and weaken the party’s electoral chances.
The stakeholders, drawn from major blocs within the party, insisted that only transparent direct primaries would guarantee fairness, restore confidence, and preserve unity ahead of the polls.
Their position was contained in a communiqué issued after a press briefing held at the Otunba Subomi Balogun Hall, University of Ibadan.
The group expressed “deep concern and dissatisfaction” over what it described as recent anti-democratic developments within the party, cautioning that any attempt to sidestep due process could threaten its cohesion and survival.
It specifically disowned a meeting reportedly held on May 1 in Ibadan, allegedly convened by Senator Ayoade Adeseun and Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, declaring the gathering “null, void and unacceptable.”
According to the stakeholders, the meeting did not represent the position of genuine party leaders and was driven by “pecuniary interests” rather than the collective will of members.
“The actions of these political dealers are condemnable and constitute a direct assault on internal democracy,” the communiqué stated.
Reinforcing their stance, the group demanded the adoption of direct primaries for all elective positions, describing the process as the most credible means of ensuring inclusiveness and legitimacy.
While not entirely ruling out consensus arrangements, the stakeholders stressed that such must be based on unanimous agreement, written consent of aspirants, and full transparency without external interference.
Speaking at the briefing, a stakeholder, Adetoyese Akeem Ishola, dismissed claims linking the President to any imposition agenda.
“Mr President is a democrat. Let everyone go to the field to test their popularity so that the best candidate can emerge. They are lying against the President and the lie cannot stand,” he said.
Another stakeholder, Hon. Dauda Kolawole, warned that any attempt to impose candidates would fail in the state.
“Imposition cannot work here. They have to be careful. Imposition will not work in Oyo State,” he declared.
The group also called for disciplinary measures against members accused of anti-party activities, including possible expulsion where necessary, warning that acts capable of undermining unity and electoral strength would be resisted.
Raising concerns over possible defections, the stakeholders warned that the exit of key figures such as Teslim Folarin could significantly impact the party’s stability and performance in 2027, urging the national leadership to act swiftly to prevent internal disintegration.
They maintained that residents of Oyo State still view the APC as a viable alternative to the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, but stressed that such expectations could only be realised through unity, inclusiveness, and credible leadership selection processes.
On national appointments, the group congratulated Joseph Tegbe on his nomination as Minister of Power, while advising him to focus on national responsibilities and avoid actions that could destabilise the party in the state.
The stakeholders further criticised what they described as attempts to sideline loyal members in favour of individuals lacking grassroots support, insisting that candidate selection must be anchored on merit, competence, acceptability, and electability.
Reaffirming their loyalty to the APC, they urged party leaders at all levels to act with urgency and sincerity to strengthen internal democracy and ensure cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections.
The communiqué was signed by several stakeholders across party factions, including Bishop Akinleye Olusegun, Aare Olayiwola Saheed, Adetoyese Akeem Ishola, Asiwaju Mudashiru, Mogaji Abiola Oyeyemi, Inaolaji Akinloye, and others.
