From Delegates to the Masses: Oyo APC Primaries Turn Every Party Member into a Kingmaker—or a Target
Power Returns to the Grassroots: Oyo APC Members Take Centre Stage as Direct Primaries Approach
As political activities gather momentum ahead of the forthcoming primaries, a new wave of engagement is sweeping through the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State. With the party set to adopt the direct primary system, the balance of power is unmistakably shifting back to ordinary, card-carrying members across all wards.
This development follows the provisions of the amended Electoral Act 2022 (as amended), which legally recognises direct primaries as one of the valid methods through which political parties can nominate candidates for elective offices. Specifically, Section 84 of the Act empowers political parties to choose between direct, indirect, or consensus primaries, while mandating transparency and oversight by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). In the case of direct primaries, all registered party members are eligible to participate in the voting process at their respective wards.
For many party faithful in Oyo State, this is more than just a procedural requirement—it represents a restoration of political relevance at the grassroots level. After years of internal negotiations dominated by delegates and party elites, the direct primary model now places decision-making squarely in the hands of the people who form the backbone of the party structure.
As the APC prepares for what promises to be a defining governorship contest, several aspirants have already signaled their readiness to test their popularity among the grassroots. Notable among them are Akeem Agbaje, Adewale Kolapo Kareem, Sarafadeen Alli, and Adebayo Adelabu, all of whom have obtained their expression of interest and nomination forms.
Their emergence has intensified political calculations within the party, with each aspirant now compelled to build genuine connections at the ward level rather than rely solely on high-level endorsements. In practical terms, the coming weeks will test not just political structures, but also goodwill, credibility, and long-standing relationships with party members.
Observers note that while influence and financial strength have always played roles in Nigerian politics, the direct primary system introduces a broader layer of accountability. Aspirants must now engage thousands of party members across the state, making retail politics—door-to-door mobilization, ward meetings, and direct voter engagement—more critical than ever.
At the same time, the law provides clear guidelines to ensure fairness. INEC is mandated to monitor party primaries, ensuring compliance with democratic standards and reducing the likelihood of manipulation. This oversight effectively transforms the primaries into what many describe as a “mini-election,” replicated across wards in all local government areas of Oyo State.
Despite this clarity, questions remain around logistics and execution. The specific modalities—such as designated voting centres, accreditation processes, and collation methods—are yet to be fully communicated by party authorities. Historically, variations in implementation have shaped outcomes, and stakeholders are keenly watching how the process will be conducted this time.
What is not in doubt, however, is the renewed sense of empowerment among party members. Across wards, there is growing awareness that individual votes now carry significant weight in determining who eventually flies the party’s flag. Conversations that were once confined to political circles have now extended to grassroots meetings, community gatherings, and local party offices.
For the aspirants, this reality presents both an opportunity and a challenge. Victory will no longer depend solely on political godfathers or elite consensus, but on the ability to inspire trust, demonstrate loyalty to party ideals, and connect authentically with members.
As May draws closer, the atmosphere within the Oyo APC reflects a mix of anticipation and strategic maneuvering. Titans are indeed preparing to slug it out, but the ultimate decision will rest with the rank-and-file members—those whose voices are now amplified under the direct primary system.
In essence, the unfolding process signals a defining moment for internal party democracy in Oyo State. Whether it delivers a truly transparent and credible outcome will depend not just on the rules, but on the collective commitment of all stakeholders to uphold them.
For now, one message resonates clearly across the political landscape: power has returned to the people.
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