The recent defection of retired Nigerian Army Colonel, Gbenga Adegbola, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has been trailed by controversy, with allegations of money politics swirling around his entry.
According to sources within the party, Adegbola’s sudden interest in politics has raised eyebrows, with many viewing his move as a ploy to further his personal interests. Critics argue that the retired colonel is attempting to buy his way into the party’s hierarchy, using his financial influence to sway the decision of party leaders.
Sources close to the party have revealed that Adegbola’s entry, a former military assistant to former Chief of Army Staff General Buratai, who officially declared his membership of the APC at the Baabo Community in Saki West Local Government Area into the APC has been met with skepticism by some party members, who view his sudden interest in politics as a ploy to further his personal interests.
“Adegbola’s entry into the APC is seen as a move to expand his business empire and increase his influence in the state,” said a party source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “His wealth and connections are seen as a threat to the existing power structure within the party.”
Sources close to the party secretariat in Oke Ado, Ibadan, reveal that Adegbola procured business-class tickets for members of the state elective committee to accompany him to Abuja, where he was introduced to the national chairman, Dr. Umar Ganduje . This move has sparked speculation among party members, with some interpreting it as a plot by the state executive committee to present Adegbola as the party’s preferred candidate for the 2027 election but his political intentions remain a question mark .
Critics argue that Adegbola’s financial influence is being used to sway the party’s decision, with some questioning his political weight and value to the party .The development has led to concerns about the potential for money politics to undermine the party’s internal democracy.
Despite these allegations, Adegbola has expressed his commitment to contributing to the progress of the party and society, reaffirming his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that every well-meaning Nigerian should rally behind his administration’s efforts to transform the country.
The Oyo State chapter of the APC has welcomed Adegbola’s entry, with the State Chairman, Alhaji Olayide Abas, describing him as a man of integrity, courage, and passion for public service. However, the allegations of money politics surrounding Adegbola’s entry are likely to continue to be a topic of debate in the coming weeks.
According to sources, he has been secretly meeting with stakeholders and party leaders, seeking their support and endorsement for his candidacy.
However, Adegbola has been building a financial war chest without controversy with other serious opponents, donating handsomely at important events. Observers have also raised concerns about the source of his funding.
Despite these concerns, Adegbola remains confident that his financial war chest will give him the edge he needs to secure the governorship or Senatorial ticket.
If money counts for who gets the ticket, Adegbola’s candidacy will have a boost but his lack of experience in politics may prove to be a hurdle too high to overcome? Only time will tell.