A group of stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has rejected what it described as attempts to impose consensus candidates on the party, warning that such moves could spark internal crisis and weaken its structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The position was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a stakeholders’ press briefing held on Monday at the Otunba Subomi Balogun Hall, University of Ibadan.

‎In the communiqué, the concerned stakeholders expressed deep concern over recent developments within the party, cautioning that if not addressed, they could threaten unity and cohesion in the state chapter.

‎The group specifically distanced itself from a meeting reportedly held on May 1 in Ibadan, said to have been championed by Senator Ayoade Adeseun and Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It described the gathering as null, void, and not representative of the position of genuine stakeholders.

‎According to the stakeholders, the meeting did not reflect the collective will of party members and was allegedly driven by personal interests rather than the broader good of the party. They described such actions as a violation of internal democratic principles.

‎The group called for the adoption of direct primary elections for the selection of candidates, noting that the process remains the most credible means of restoring confidence among party members amid growing concerns.

‎While not entirely opposed to consensus arrangements, the stakeholders maintained that any such process must be based on broad agreement among all stakeholders, backed by written consent from aspirants, and conducted transparently without undue influence.

‎On party discipline, the group urged the leadership to take decisive action against individuals accused of anti-party conduct and indiscipline, including the application of appropriate sanctions where necessary.

It also raised concerns over possible defections by key figures, particularly Senator Teslim Folarin, warning that such developments could affect the party’s stability and electoral prospects in the state. The group therefore called on the national leadership of the APC to take proactive steps to preserve unity and retain influential members.

The stakeholders noted that many residents of Oyo State see the APC as a credible alternative to the current administration of Gov. Seyi Makinde, adding that such expectations can only be met through unity, inclusiveness, and strategic leadership.

On national appointments, the group congratulated Engr. Joseph Tegbe on his nomination as Minister of Power, while advising him to focus on his national assignment and avoid actions that could create division within the party at the state level.

They further called for greater inclusiveness in party affairs, urging the leadership to recognise and engage founding members in key decision-making processes. The group also cautioned against sidelining loyal members in favour of individuals without strong grassroots support, stressing that candidate selection should be based on merit, competence, acceptability, and electability.

Reaffirming its loyalty to the APC, the stakeholders urged party leaders at all levels to act with urgency and sincerity to strengthen internal democracy and ensure unity ahead of future elections.