A fresh wave of political tension is rippling through Oyo State’s chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following a pointed remark by Barrister Akeem Agbaje, who has openly challenged perceived external influence in the party’s internal decision-making process.
Speaking during a live appearance on Fresh FM, Agbaje delivered a direct and unmistakable message widely interpreted as a jab at Chief Adebayo Adelabu, a prominent APC figure and former Minister of Power. Agbaje stated: “You cannot sit in your office in Abuja and expect to direct people to declare your candidate as the APC candidate in Oyo State.”
The comment underscores growing concerns about alleged top-down influence in the selection of party candidates ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race—an issue that has historically fueled factional disputes within the APC in Oyo State.
A Familiar Battle Within Oyo APC
The APC in Oyo has long been characterized by internal rivalries and competing power blocs. Political analysts note that divisions within the party were evident during previous election cycles, particularly in the lead-up to the 2023 gubernatorial election, where disagreements over candidate selection deepened cracks within the party’s structure.
Figures such as Agbaje and Adelabu have both been key players in these internal contests. Adelabu, who previously emerged as the APC gubernatorial candidate in 2019 before losing the general election, remains a significant force in Oyo politics with deep-rooted influence and political ambition.
Agbaje’s latest remarks appear to revive longstanding debates about autonomy versus central control within party politics—particularly the role of Abuja-based power brokers in determining outcomes at the state level.
Grassroots vs. Political Godfatherism
At the heart of Agbaje’s statement is a broader ideological conflict: should candidate emergence be dictated by grassroots consensus or influenced by elite political figures operating from the federal capital?
By emphasizing that decisions should not be remotely controlled from Abuja, Agbaje is positioning himself as a defender of internal democracy and local stakeholder participation. His comment resonates with a recurring sentiment among party members who argue that imposed candidates often weaken party unity and electoral performance.
Political observers say such statements are not merely rhetorical—they signal early positioning for the 2027 governorship race, where multiple aspirants are expected to jostle for the APC ticket.
Timing and Political Implications
The timing of Agbaje’s outburst is particularly significant. With early alignments already forming within the APC, public statements like this serve both as a warning and a strategic move to shape the narrative around fairness and transparency.
Despite recent efforts by party leaders to project unity ahead of future elections, underlying tensions remain. Reports indicate that key APC stakeholders in Oyo have previously attempted reconciliation and grassroots mobilization to strengthen cohesion, especially after past internal crises.
However, Agbaje’s comments suggest that unresolved issues—particularly around candidate imposition—could once again threaten party stability if not carefully managed.
The Bigger Picture
Beyond Oyo State, the controversy reflects a wider challenge within Nigerian political parties: balancing centralized influence with democratic processes at the state level. The debate over “who decides” remains a critical factor in party credibility, voter trust, and ultimately, electoral success.
As the 2027 elections gradually come into focus, statements like Agbaje’s are likely to intensify political discourse, expose internal fault lines, and redefine alliances within the APC.
For now, one thing is clear: the battle for Oyo’s political future is already underway—and it’s not just about who runs, but who truly decides.
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