Some stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State have rejected alleged plans to impose consensus candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that such moves could destabilise the party’s structure in the state.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued after a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Otunba Subomi Balogun Hall, University of Ibadan, on Tuesday.
The document was signed by several party figures, who insisted that only a transparent and democratic process, particularly direct primaries, should be used in selecting candidates for the 2027 elections.
According to them, any attempt to sidestep internal democracy could deepen divisions within the party and weaken its chances in future elections.
The stakeholders stressed that imposition of candidates would be strongly resisted, describing it as a threat to party unity and survival in Oyo State.
Their position comes amid heightened political activity within the APC as aspirants intensify consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
Former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, recently resigned from the federal cabinet to pursue his governorship ambition. He formally declared his interest after meeting with APC executives in Ibadan, where he also rejected the idea of a consensus arrangement.
Adelabu reaffirmed his loyalty to the party and expressed confidence in securing the APC ticket through a competitive primary process.
His declaration followed growing endorsements within the party for Senator Sharafadeen Alli as a preferred governorship candidate, further highlighting internal divisions over succession plans.
The stakeholders’ communiqué also criticised a recent political meeting in Ibadan allegedly linked to efforts to promote a consensus arrangement, distancing themselves from its outcomes and rejecting its legitimacy.
They described the gathering as unrepresentative of genuine party leadership and insisted that all aspirants should be allowed to test their popularity through open competition.
The group further called on the national leadership of the APC to intervene and ensure fairness, warning that unresolved grievances could lead to defections and weaken the party’s standing in the state.
They also urged disciplinary action against members accused of anti-party activities, while reaffirming support for internal democracy as the only viable path to strengthening the party ahead of 2027.
