A leading aspirant for the Oyo State governorship seat in 2027 under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Ololade Usman Bakare, has called on party leaders and members to uphold fairness and ensure a level playing field ahead of the party’s primaries.
Speaking during an appearance on Splash FM’s political programme _Gbagede Oselu_, hosted by Kunle Anifowose, Dr. Bakare urged APC leaders and executives to prioritize party unity above personal interests.
“A united party is the strongest party,” he said, stressing that internal cohesion would be critical to the APC’s chances in the 2027 general election.
Dr. Bakare cautioned against any attempt to impose a candidate under the guise of consensus. He said whatever selection method the party adopts must be the product of collective agreement among stakeholders, not a top-down decision.
“Only a transparent and grassroots-driven process can guarantee victory for Oyo APC,” he stated.
The guber hopeful also appealed to fellow aspirants to maintain decorum and avoid inflammatory statements that could deepen divisions within the party. He warned that personal ambition should not be placed above the collective goal of winning the state.
His remarks come amid growing tension within the Oyo APC over rumors of a planned imposition of a candidate disguised as a consensus arrangement. The development has sparked public outcry from some party faithfuls who fear it could weaken unity and morale ahead of the polls.
Dr. Bakare appealed to state party leaders and loyalists to allow peace to prevail and to support whoever emerges from a credible primary process.
“At this critical time, what Oyo APC needs is unity. We must come together and speak with one voice,” he said.