Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State have attributed the party’s poor showing in the 2023 general elections to the imposition of candidates.
This was contained in a communiqué issued after the Oyo APC Leadership Summit held on Tuesday in Ibadan.
The communiqué was jointly signed by the State Chairman, Alhaji Olayide Abas; State Secretary, Alhaji Tajudeen Olanite; former State Chairman, Chief Akin Oke; and Chairman of the Oyo APC Elders Advisory Council, Chief Iyiola Oladokun. Other signatories included Senator Ayoade Adeseun, Senator Brimo Yusuff, Alhaji Adisa Gbayawu, and Chief Alarape Jolaoso.
According to the leaders, future selection of party candidates and officers must be credible, transparent, and reflect the will of members.
“We observed that the imposition of candidates undermined our internal democracy. Henceforth, every process must be free, fair, and transparent,” the communiqué stated.
The leaders also criticised the proliferation of political groups within the party, warning that such divisions weaken unity. They urged members to place the party’s interests above personal ambitions.
They further expressed concern over indiscipline among some leaders and officeholders, recommending that the state executive establish a disciplinary committee to address misconduct.
Additionally, they condemned the misuse of social media by party members, describing it as a major source of disunity, and proposed a collegiate leadership structure—with two nominees from each senatorial district—to strengthen internal coordination.
The communiqué cautioned aspirants against early campaigns and inflammatory comments that could breach Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regulations or deepen internal rifts.
The leaders also voiced dissatisfaction with what they described as Oyo State’s “shortchange” in federal appointments, calling for urgent corrective action.
They pledged renewed commitment to rebuilding the party and strategising for victory in future elections, while criticising the “terrible condition” of the 33 local government areas under the current PDP-led administration.
