Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in six local government areas of Oyo State have expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the party’s recently concluded ward, local government, and state congresses, describing the exercise as peaceful, transparent, and a significant step toward strengthening internal democracy. At the same time, they have called on the party’s national leadership to urgently review its zoning arrangement, citing concerns over fairness and adequate representation.
The stakeholders, drawn from Akinyele, Egbeda, Ido, Lagelu, Oluyole, and Ona-Ara local government areas, made their position known in a communiqué issued at the end of a quarterly meeting held at the party’s secretariat along New Ife Road in Ibadan. The meeting brought together party leaders, elders, and influential members who deliberated extensively on the state of the party and its future direction.
In their communiqué, the stakeholders acknowledged that prior to the congresses, there had been widespread apprehension among members due to the controversies that characterized similar exercises in previous years. Many party faithful had feared a repeat of internal disputes, factional disagreements, and disruptions that once threatened party unity. However, they noted that those fears did not materialize, as the congresses were conducted in a calm and orderly manner across the state.
They emphasized that the successful outcome of the congresses demonstrated a renewed sense of unity and purpose within the party, adding that the process has repositioned the party for greater cohesion and strategic focus ahead of future political engagements. According to them, the peaceful nature of the exercise has not only strengthened the party’s internal structures but also restored confidence among members and supporters.
The stakeholders attributed the success largely to the adoption of consensus as a guiding principle, as well as the maturity and discipline displayed by party leaders and members at all levels. They pointed out that the decision to embrace consensus helped to reduce tensions, minimize competition-induced conflicts, and ensure that the process reflected collective agreement rather than divisive contests.
They further noted that the congresses were conducted seamlessly across all 351 wards and the 33 local government areas in the state, without any reported incidents of violence or major disputes. This, they said, stands as a testament to the effectiveness of the leadership’s approach and the willingness of members to prioritize unity over personal ambition.
In addition, the stakeholders congratulated Moses Adeyemo on his emergence as the new state chairman of the party. They described his emergence as well-deserved, expressing confidence in his capacity to lead the party toward greater success. They pledged their unwavering support and cooperation to him and his executive team, stressing the importance of collective effort in achieving the party’s objectives, particularly as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general elections.
While commending the progress made, the stakeholders also urged the new leadership to address lingering disagreements and unresolved issues in some local government areas. They stressed that consolidating the gains of the congresses would require deliberate efforts to reconcile aggrieved members, foster inclusiveness, and ensure that no faction feels marginalized within the party structure.
Beyond state-level concerns, the stakeholders directed attention to what they described as imbalances in the party’s zoning arrangement at the national level. They expressed dissatisfaction with the distribution of key positions, arguing that Oyo State has not received its fair share despite its significant contributions to the party’s growth and electoral strength.
They highlighted the state’s large voting population, strategic importance in the South-West region, and abundance of capable political leaders as reasons it deserves more prominent representation in both the zonal and national structures of the party. According to them, a more equitable distribution of positions would not only promote fairness but also enhance unity and strengthen the party’s overall appeal.
The group therefore called on the national leadership to urgently review the zoning framework to ensure a more balanced and inclusive arrangement. They warned that failure to address these concerns could lead to discontent among members and potentially weaken the party’s cohesion ahead of future elections.
In conclusion, the stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to the ideals and progress of the party, urging all members to remain united and focused. They stressed that sustaining the current atmosphere of peace and cooperation, while addressing issues of equity and representation, would be crucial to positioning the party for success in the years ahead.
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