The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Saki, Oyo State, is embroiled in a deepening leadership crisis, as rival factions split at the party’s Local Government Congresses held across LGAs such as Saki West, Saki East, and ATISBO LGAs on Saturday.The congresses have taken a dramatic turn, with rival factions producing parallel executives and laying claim to legitimacy.
Those who spoke on the conditions of anonymity, indicate that the contest for control of the party’s machinery has intensified, with multiple groups vying for dominance. The factions, allegedly backed by influential politicians, produced parallel executives, further muddying the waters.
Our correspondent, who monitored the exercise, reports that three distinct factions have emerged in Saki West, producing parallel LG executives, while two factions each conducted elections in Saki East and ATISBO LGAs.
Tajudeen Okunlola-led executive has asserted its legitimacy, claiming to have acted in accordance with directives from the party’s state secretariat and adhered to official guidelines provided by the party at the state level.
The faction, reportedly loyal to Hon. Kareem Tajudeen Abisodun, lawmaker representing Saki West, Saki East, and ATISBO federal constituency, and Senator Hosea Agboola Halleluyah, stated that the congress was monitored by the party’s legal adviser, further bolstering their claim.
Factions loyal to Sen. Buhari AbdulFatai and Col. Adegbola dispute Okunlola-led exec, citing consensus election of Alh. Saheed Adesope-led executives. They alleged politicking and intrigue behind rival claims. Meanwhile, a faction loyal to ex-Head of Service Mrs. Hannah Ogunesan has produced yet another set of executives.
In ATISBO LGA , rival executives emerged: Hon. Tafa Muftau Ekuku’s group backs Hon. Abisodun and Sen. Halleluyah, while Lateef Odede Ajemeje leads the faction loyal to Sen. Abdulfatai Buhari as the power struggle intensifies.
Observers warn that APC’s inaction will weaken party structures, leading to defeat in future elections. Stakeholders decry “supremacy battle” among leaders, urging resolution to save party from implosion.