The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced the suspension of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, former Minister of Interior and ex-governor of Osun State, citing allegations of anti-party activities. The decision, formalized in a resolution, was submitted to the APC National Secretariat and addressed to the National Chairman, Dr. Umar Ganduje.
The APC in Osun State alleges that Aregbesola has been involved in actions undermining the party’s unity, specifically by promoting a factional group within the state’s APC structure. According to the party’s resolution, Aregbesola’s actions contributed to a significant split among party members, allegedly weakening the organization’s cohesion and causing friction among its loyalists.
The faction Aregbesola is accused of creating reportedly operates independently, challenging the existing party structure and hierarchy in the state. Sources within the APC suggest that Aregbesola’s conduct has been a point of contention for some time, particularly due to his influence over certain groups who identify with his leadership style and policies from his tenure as governor. This splinter group, sources say, has been pushing a separate agenda that often conflicts with that of the mainstream APC in Osun, leading to persistent discord.
Osun APC leadership stressed that the suspension is necessary to maintain party discipline and to set an example for members who may engage in activities detrimental to the party’s success. Party insiders indicate that the suspension sends a strong message about the importance of unity and loyalty within the ranks, especially as the party looks towards upcoming elections.
As of now, the APC national leadership, led by Dr. Ganduje, is expected to review the resolution and address the concerns raised by the Osun chapter. The national body has yet to issue an official statement, but sources indicate a potential intervention aimed at resolving the discord within Osun APC.