Abuja: Dr Moshood Abiola, a governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 Oyo State election, has called for the adoption of direct primaries in selecting the party’s flagbearer. Abiola made the call in a statement in Abuja, highlighting the rising tension within the APC in Oyo State over alleged moves to impose a ‘consensus candidate’ for the upcoming governorship election.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the aspirant emphasized the importance of involving the party’s wider membership in determining its candidate, insisting that only a transparent and grassroots-driven process would strengthen the party’s chances in the general election. Abiola stated, “Only a credible and transparent direct primary can guarantee victory for our party in Oyo State. Any attempt to impose a candidate through consensus that does not reflect the will of members will undermine unity and progress.”
Abiola pointed out the increasing political tension among aspirants within the APC in Oyo State, noting that some stakeholders are reportedly divided over the preferred mode of primaries. He expressed concerns over recent exchanges among aspirants, which party members fear could deepen internal rifts ahead of the 2027 polls.
The aspirant urged his fellow party members to avoid inflammatory remarks and prioritize unity and party cohesion over personal ambition. “I appeal to all aspirants to remain civil in their engagements. Our common goal is to win Oyo State for the APC, not to destroy ourselves before the main contest,” he added.
Abiola also called on the party leadership in the state to build on past experiences, emphasizing that the strength of the APC lies in its grassroots structure.