By Salam Saheed
The chairmanship race of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Saki West Local Government Area of Oyo State has taken a dramatic turn, with legal practitioner Lateef Sarafadeen Abiola otherwise called “Onijo” reportedly gaining the upper hand in the battle for the party’s ticket ahead of the forthcoming local government election.
Onijo, who is believed to be enjoying favourable consideration within the party hierarchy, is also said to have attracted the attention of political actors close to the governor, a development that has significantly altered the calculations surrounding the contest.
Although the party has not officially announced its preferred candidate, political sources familiar with the ongoing consultations said Abiola has emerged as a strong favourite in the consensus-building process, with his perceived acceptability among key stakeholders strengthening his position.
His reported advantage has triggered fresh manoeuvring among other aspirants, particularly as party leaders seek to avoid a bruising primary that could leave the party divided ahead of the election.
Those still in contention include Hon. Gbenga Akinola, Hassan Ajibade (Esq.), Hon. Oluwakemi Waheed, Hon. Muda Busari and Hon. Waheed Omoyemi.
The committee coordinating the consultations comprises Engr. Hammed Gbadamosi, Alhaji Lati Komi, Baba Alaraje, Alhaji Rafiu Adekunle, Hon. Niyi Adebisi, Hon. Femi Julius, Alhaji Adeshina Moshood and Idris Aloma.
The committee is expected to continue its engagement with party leaders and stakeholders before arriving at a final recommendation.
Sources said the emerging calculations are increasingly tilting towards Abiola, whose supporters believe his professional background, political relationships and perceived acceptability could make him a suitable compromise candidate.
The development has consequently intensified speculation that ,the legal practitioner may be handed the APM chairmanship ticket, particularly if the ongoing consultations culminate in a consensus arrangement.
As the consultations draw to a close, political stakeholders and supporters across Saki West are keenly awaiting the party’s official declaration. There is growing expectation that the APM may formally announce its chairmanship candidate either today or Wednesday, depending on the conclusion of the ongoing consultations.