Oyo APC on bumpy path to 2027

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State continues to grapple with internal divisions and leadership crises, challenges that have persisted since the party’s return to power in 2011. These issues have undermined its ability to present a united front and remain competitive in the state’s political landscape.

Timeline of Challenges:

1. 2011-2019: The Ajimobi Era
   • The late Abiola Ajimobi’s tenure as governor marked a period of both success and rising tensions within the APC.
   • The emergence of factions, notably the Unity Forum in 2018, fractured the party. Many dissenters eventually supported PDP candidate Seyi Makinde, who defeated APC’s Bayo Adelabu in the 2019 gubernatorial election.
2. 2020-2022: Leadership Void
   • Ajimobi’s death in 2020 deepened the leadership crisis, leaving the party without a unifying figure.
   • Former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala’s brief leadership role faced resistance, as he was not widely accepted by core APC members. His death in January 2022 exacerbated the party’s struggles.
3. 2023 Elections: Divisive Primaries
   • The state congress of 2022 saw a bitter contest between Teslim Folarin’s bloc and supporters of Bayo Adelabu.
   • Folarin emerged as the APC gubernatorial candidate, leading Adelabu to defect to Accord Party, where he ran for governor in 2023. This split weakened the APC further, and both candidates lost to Makinde.

Post-2023 Developments:

• President Tinubu’s Victory: While some hoped that Tinubu’s victory would unify the party, appointments like that of Adelabu as Minister of Power reignited old grievances.
• Factional Divisions: Loyalists to Folarin and Adelabu continue to blame each other for the party’s woes, with accusations of unfair tactics and betrayal deepening mistrust.
• Discontent with Appointments: Federal appointments have appeased some party members, but many feel the APC lacks cohesion and remains on a downward trajectory.

The Way Forward:

To regain its footing, Oyo APC must focus on reconciliation, transparency in internal processes, and building a unified leadership structure that prioritizes the collective interest over factional loyalties. Without addressing these foundational issues, the party risks continued fragmentation and declining influence in the state.

CREDIT: Allschoolabs, THE NATION

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