Oyo APC crisis appeal to Tinubu highlights internal divisions, alleging manipulation and warning of risks ahead of 2027 elections

A group of stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, led by Ambassador Debo Adesina, has issued an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning of deepening internal divisions and calling for urgent intervention ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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The group, identified as the Ireakari Group, raised concerns over what it described as a troubling leadership crisis within the party, alleging a lack of transparency, exclusion of key stakeholders, and manipulation of party structures at various levels.

The Oyo APC crisis appeal, made public on Wednesday, underscores fears that unresolved disputes could undermine the party’s electoral prospects.

In the letter, the signatories criticised the composition and operations of a zoning committee responsible for allocating party executive positions, questioning its legitimacy and the secrecy surrounding its formation.

The group argued that major zones within the state were excluded, raising doubts about inclusivity and fairness in the process.

The stakeholders also expressed dissatisfaction with a recent stakeholders’ meeting held on March 1, 2026, describing it as lacking meaningful dialogue and dominated by directives rather than consultation.

Concerns were further raised about the selection of nominees for state executive positions, with claims that some appointments were made without the input of local party leaders.

Tensions surrounding ward and local government congresses were highlighted as a critical flashpoint.

The group alleged that outcomes of duly conducted congresses were overturned at the state level, citing cases in Itesiwaju and Irepo local government areas, as well as disputes in several others including Atisbo, Ogbomoso South and Ibadan North-West.

The letter warned that the current situation, if left unaddressed, could pose a serious threat to party unity and electoral success.

It urged President Tinubu to intervene decisively to restore order, promote transparency, and ensure inclusivity within the party’s structure in Oyo State.

Despite reaffirming loyalty to the president and the broader APC vision, the group stressed that internal cohesion must take precedence over individual ambitions.

The signatories described the moment as critical, cautioning that silence within the party should not be mistaken for stability.

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The appeal adds to growing concerns over intra-party disputes in key states, as political parties begin early positioning ahead of the next general election cycle.