Adeboje Lukman
Tension is mounting within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State following a controversial outburst by a former Vice Chairman of the party, Isiaka Alimi, over the endorsement of Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli as a consensus gubernatorial candidate.
Alimi, a prominent figure within the party’s structure in the state, reportedly expressed strong dissatisfaction with the decision of some party leaders to rally behind Alli. In what observers have described as a dramatic escalation of internal disagreements, he allegedly invoked curses on individuals involved in endorsing the senator, a move that has stirred reactions across political circles.
The endorsement of Senator Alli, who currently represents Oyo South Senatorial District, has been viewed by some stakeholders as an attempt to unify the party ahead of the next governorship election. However, others within the APC have criticized the move, arguing that it undermines internal democracy and excludes broader consultation among party members.
Political analysts say the development reflects deep-seated divisions within the Oyo APC, particularly over zoning arrangements and the process of selecting candidates. The latest controversy is feared to widen existing cracks in the party, which has been working to strengthen its position in the state’s political landscape.
Efforts to reach key party officials for comments were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report. Meanwhile, some party loyalists have called for calm, urging leaders to resolve their differences through dialogue rather than public confrontations.
As the situation unfolds, attention remains on how the APC leadership in Oyo State will manage the growing unrest and whether the party can maintain unity ahead of crucial political contests.