Tensions escalated within the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State on Tuesday as party members staged a protest at the state secretariat, demanding adherence to a rotational arrangement ahead of the 2027 elections.
Hundreds of protesters, largely from the Ibadan North Federal Constituency, gathered at the party’s Oke-Ado headquarters, blocking access and displaying placards calling for fairness in the distribution of House of Representatives tickets.
At the center of the dispute is an alleged long-standing understanding within the party to rotate elective positions among different zones and local government areas. Protesters accused some party leaders of attempting to sideline this arrangement by backing preferred candidates or retaining incumbents from zones they say have already benefited.
Speaking during the demonstration, one of the coordinators said the demand was rooted in ensuring equity within the party, warning that any attempt to ignore the zoning principle could trigger deeper divisions ahead of the elections.
The protest comes amid heightened political activity following the decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission to reschedule National Assembly elections to January 2027. The shift has intensified early positioning among aspirants and stakeholders across parties.
For the APC, which remains in opposition in Oyo State, maintaining unity is seen as critical to mounting a strong challenge against the ruling government.
Party officials who addressed the protesters urged calm, assuring members that consultations are ongoing and no final decisions have been taken regarding candidate selection.
They emphasized the need for internal cohesion, noting that resolving disputes amicably would be key to strengthening the party ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Political observers say the disagreement reflects broader internal struggles within the party, as various factions compete for influence ahead of 2027. The ability of the APC leadership to manage these tensions, they note, could determine its electoral prospects in the state.
Although the protest ended without violence, organizers signaled that further action could follow if their demands are not addressed, underscoring the growing pressure within the party as preparations for the elections gather momentum.