Fresh concerns over internal cohesion have emerged within the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, as party stakeholders warned that unresolved disputes over candidate selection could weaken the party’s chances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At a press conference held at the University of Ibadan on Saturday, party members and loyalists accused some individuals within the APC of attempting to force consensus candidates on the party without broad consultation. The stakeholders said such moves risk deepening divisions at a time when opposition parties are already repositioning for the next election cycle.

In a communiqué addressed to President Bola Tinubu and the party’s national leadership, the group insisted that internal democracy must remain central to the APC’s processes in Oyo State. They called for the adoption of direct primaries, arguing that transparent participation by party members would help reduce tension and restore confidence among the grassroots.

The stakeholders also rejected the outcome of a meeting reportedly held in Ibadan on May 1, describing it as unrepresentative of the wider party structure. According to them, decisions affecting the future of the APC in the state should not be driven by a small group of interests or personal political calculations.

Beyond candidate selection, the group raised concerns about possible defections by influential members, warning that the loss of key political figures could further complicate efforts to rebuild the party in the state. They urged the national leadership to intervene early and create room for reconciliation among aggrieved factions before preparations for 2027 intensify.

The stakeholders maintained that the APC still has strong support in Oyo State but stressed that unity, fairness, and inclusion would determine the party’s ability to remain competitive. They also called for greater recognition of founding members and long-serving loyalists in major decisions affecting the future direction of the party.