A coalition of concerned stakeholders under the banner of “Oyo Masses” has raised strong objections to the current political structure within the Oyo Federal Constituency, calling for urgent reforms in representation, zoning, and candidate selection processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a position paper made available to the public, the group, representing a broad segment of the electorate across Atiba, Oyo West, Oyo East, and Afijio Local Government Areas, expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as a disconnect between the people’s expectations and the prevailing leadership arrangement.

The statement highlighted what it termed “tenure fatigue,” alleging that certain individuals have occupied the House of Representatives seat for multiple consecutive terms, thereby limiting opportunities for new entrants and fresh ideas. According to the group, democracy should not be reduced to prolonged occupancy by a few, but should encourage inclusiveness and periodic renewal of leadership.

On the issue of zoning, the constituents decried what they described as an imbalance in the sharing formula among the four local governments that make up the constituency. They alleged that Atiba Local Government has disproportionately occupied the seat over the years, while Oyo East, Oyo West, and Afijio have remained largely sidelined.

The group further raised concerns over alleged moves by unnamed political actors to circulate a list of “consensus candidates” for the 2027 elections. It rejected such reports, describing them as speculative, non-representative, and contrary to democratic principles. The constituents insisted that any attempt to impose candidates would be resisted, calling instead for a transparent and inclusive primary process.

Among its key demands, the group called on political stakeholders to adopt a clear zoning arrangement that would allow Afijio Local Government to produce the next representative in order to address perceived imbalances. It also advocated a limit on the number of terms an individual can serve in the House of Representatives seat for the constituency, suggesting a cap of three terms to prevent what it termed “overstaying.”

Additionally, the group urged political parties to discard any purported consensus arrangements not broadly agreed upon by party members and the electorate. It emphasized the need for strict adherence to the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and internal party regulations to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants.

The statement concluded with a call for a more inclusive and participatory political process, stressing that the future of the constituency depends on fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for all its constituent local governments.

While reaffirming their loyalty to party structures, the group warned that failure to address the outlined concerns could compel them to explore legal options or alternative measures to ensure their voices are heard.

The development signals growing political engagement within the constituency as stakeholders begin early conversations around representation and equity ahead of the 2027 polls.

“URGENT APPEAL AGAINST OVERSTAYED REPRESENTATION, DEMAND FOR FAIR SHARING FORMULA (ROTATION), AND CESSATION OF IMPOSED LISTS (SPECULATION).”

We, the undersigned, representing the overwhelming majority of the electorate in [ Oyo federal constituency], spanning the local government areas of [Atiba, Oyo West, Oyo East and Afijo LGA], submit this position paper to express our dissatisfaction with the current political trajectory of our constituency.We are committed to democratic principles and believe that the current leadership structure does not reflect the yearnings of the people.

ISSUES OF CONCERN

A. Overstayed in Office (Tenure Fatigue): We hold that democracy is a government of the people, not a lifelong occupation for a few. Certain individuals have occupied the position of [House of Representatives for [years] consecutive terms, preventing the emergence of new talent and stifling development.

B. Imbalance in the Sharing Formula (Rotation): We call for a strict adherence to a equitable zoning/sharing formula, ensuring that each L.G within our constituency has the opportunity to produce a representative. Currently, [ Atiba, Oyo West, Oyo East and Afijo] are marginalized, while [Atiba] has held the position for an inequitable number of years.

C. Speculation of List/Imposition of Candidates: We are aware of circulating speculative lists allegedly endorsed by a few leaders as “consensus candidates” for the 2027 elections. We explicitly state that such lists are fraudulent, non-representative, and violate internal democracy. The masses demand an open, transparent, and fair direct primary election, not a “selected” list.

OUR DEMANDS

1. Immediate Zoning Reform: An official party statement declaring that the next House of Representatives candidate must come from [ Afijo Local Government] to bridge the imbalance.

2. Strict Limitation of Tenure: A directive against incumbents who have served more than [three] terms to avoid “overstaying” in office.

3. No Imposition: The nullification of any “tentative list” or “consensus” not agreed upon by the general constituency.

4. Transparent Selection Process: An assurance that INEC guidelines and internal party regulations will be followed, allowing all popular aspirants to contest.

The “Oyo Masses” demand an end to insular governance. This initiative promotes the exchange of innovative ideas between Oyo East, Oyo West, Afijio, and Atiba local governments.

“Let us build a constituency where fresh ideas from Afijio meet the aspirations of Oyo. We are committed to a participatory, transparent, and result-oriented governance for the betterment of our dear constituency.”

We are party loyalists who desire victory in the 2027 elections, but our loyalty lies with the people of [Oyo federal constituency . If these concerns are not addressed, we will be forced to take legal action or seek alternatives to ensure our voices are heard.

Signed,

_____Oyo Masses ____________ (For: Concerned Constituents)