The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has taken a bold step toward rebuilding party unity as all 33 local government chairmen converged in Ibadan on Saturday for a crucial reconciliation meeting.
The gathering, held at the Bodija residence of governorship aspirant, Oloye Saheed Oladele, was remarkable in the state’s political history.
Party leaders from across Oyo—including Saki West, Saki East, Atisbo, Oorelope, Olorunsogo, Ibarapa, and other local councils—attended in full, marking the first time the entire APC local government structure would sit under one roof.
In his address to the chairmen, Oladele, who is the Baameko of Ibadanland, emphasized the urgent need to heal divisions within the party.
He recalled that the APC’s recent loss in the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election was a direct result of disunity, warning that similar cracks could hinder the party’s prospects in the 2027 general elections if left unresolved.
“The APC is strong enough to win future elections in Oyo State,” Oladele stated, “but we must first put our house in order.
“I have deliberately refused to build a separate political structure because no aspiration can succeed without party unity. We must come together with a common front if we are serious about defeating the PDP.”
He further appealed to the party to rally behind a young, neutral, and widely acceptable candidate who could bridge divides, attract fresh energy, and consolidate grassroots support ahead of the governorship race.
Reacting to his remarks, the chairman of APC in Ibadan North, Alhaji Taofeek Olayiwola, described the turnout of the local government leaders as a sign that Oladele’s governorship ambition enjoys divine favour.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Architect J.O. Omoniyi, APC chairman for Ibadan Southwest Local Government, praised Oladele’s reconciliatory approach, stressing that the party must not head into the 2027 elections divided.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the 33 council chairmen to work together in strengthening the APC at the grassroots.
The leaders also commended Oladele for placing party cohesion above personal ambition, assuring him of their support and offering prayers for his success.
Political observers have described the meeting as a turning point for Oyo APC, noting that it not only demonstrated Oladele’s influence within the party but also highlighted the growing realization that unity, inclusiveness, and reconciliation are the keys to reclaiming power from the ruling PDP in 2027.