The internal crisis within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has deepened as key stakeholders officially rejected an alleged plot to impose “consensus candidates” ahead of the 2027 general elections.
At a press conference held at the Otunba Subomi Balogun Hall, University of Ibadan, on Saturday, May 9, 2026, a coalition of party leaders issued a stern warning that the party faces total disintegration in the state if the national leadership does not intervene to uphold internal democracy.
The Rebellion Against “Political Dealers”
The stakeholders, led by prominent figures including Akinleye Olusegun Bishop, Aare Saheed Olayiwola, and Adetoyese Akeem Ishola, expressed “deep concern and dissatisfaction” over recent developments.
- Voiding the May 1st Meeting: The group declared a reported meeting held on May 1st in Ibadan—where the consensus plan was allegedly hatched—as “null, void, and unacceptable.” They claimed the meeting was driven by “pecuniary interests” rather than the collective will of the members.
- The “Assault” on Democracy: In their communiqué, they described the push for consensus as a “direct assault on internal democracy” orchestrated by “unscrupulous elements” and “political dealers.”
- The Adelabu Factor: This rejection follows a high-profile move by former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who also recently rejected the endorsement of Sharafadeen Alli as a consensus governorship candidate, signaling that the battle for the 2027 ticket will be fiercely contested.
Demands for Transparency
The stakeholders have formally petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC national leadership to ensure a level playing field:
- Mandatory Direct Primaries: They are insisting on Direct Primary Elections as the only credible way to select candidates, ensuring that every card-carrying member has a vote.
- Consent Requirements: While not ruling out consensus entirely, they maintained it must only happen through unanimous agreement and the written consent of all aspirants, as per the Electoral Act.
- Sanctions for Anti-Party Acts: The group called for immediate disciplinary action, including expulsion, against individuals accused of “gross indiscipline” and destabilizing the party for personal gain.
