In a significant move ahead of the Oyo State gubernatorial elections, five aspirants from the All Progressives Congress (APC) have voiced their opposition to any perceived imposition of candidates, urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene. This call reflects a growing concern within the party, as members recall the electoral setbacks of 2019 and 2023, which many attribute to a lack of internal consensus and candidate selection issues.

The aspirants, who include notable figures from the state, argue that a transparent and democratic process is essential for the party's success. "We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past; we must unite behind a candidate chosen through fair means," stated Adebayo Alabi, one of the leading contenders. This sentiment underscores the urgency for a collective approach to candidate selection that resonates with the grassroots.

As the elections draw near, the APC must navigate these internal divisions carefully. The outcome will not only determine the party's fate in Oyo State but could also serve as a litmus test for its broader electoral strategy in future contests, emphasizing the need for unity and inclusivity among party members.