The political landscape in Oyo State is heating up as the 2027 general elections approach, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) positioning themselves for the upcoming gubernatorial contest. The APC Youth League, in a recent statement, has launched a volley of criticisms against Governor Seyi Makinde, accusing him of neglecting governance in pursuit of what they term an “unrealistic” presidential ambition. The youth league’s statement underscores the growing tension between the two parties and highlights key concerns regarding governance, development, and the role of young people in politics.
The APC Youth League’s accusations center on Governor Makinde’s alleged prioritization of personal political aspirations over the needs of Oyo State citizens. They cite the recent distribution of cars to selected individuals, a gesture they label as “Father Christmas” extravagance, as evidence of misplaced priorities. This, they argue, contrasts sharply with the state’s pressing developmental challenges, such as the lack of model schools, the exodus of medical personnel from government hospitals, and the absence of local government autonomy. The youth league contends that these issues have been neglected while the governor focuses on building his national political profile.
Further fueling the APC Youth League’s criticism is Governor Makinde’s stated interest in the PDP presidential ticket for the 2027 elections. While Makinde has expressed confidence in his leadership capabilities on a national scale, the youth league dismisses this ambition as unrealistic, suggesting that his focus should remain on addressing the immediate needs of Oyo State. This perceived disconnect between the governor’s aspirations and the state’s realities forms the crux of the youth league’s discontent. They argue that the pursuit of higher office should not come at the expense of effective governance at the state level.
In addition to criticizing Governor Makinde’s leadership, the APC Youth League has also emphasized the importance of youth inclusion in party governance. They advocate for greater involvement of young people in decision-making processes, arguing that their energy and creativity are essential for revitalizing the APC and securing victory in the upcoming elections. This call for youth participation reflects a broader trend within Nigerian politics, with young people increasingly demanding a more prominent role in shaping the country’s future. The youth league sees this as a crucial strategy for the APC to regain its footing in Oyo State.
Furthermore, the youth league has stressed the need for genuine reconciliation within the APC’s ranks. Acknowledging past internal conflicts that have hampered the party’s performance, they call for a united front ahead of the 2027 elections. The statement emphasizes the importance of addressing past grievances and fostering internal democracy to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants. This call for unity underscores the understanding within the APC that internal divisions could jeopardize their chances of reclaiming the governorship in Oyo State.
The APC Youth League’s statement also includes a call for accountability and transparency within the party’s leadership. They urge the national and state working committees to take their concerns seriously and implement necessary reforms to strengthen the party. They advocate for free and fair internal primaries and caution against any attempts at imposing candidates, which they believe would weaken the party’s chances in the general elections. This emphasis on internal democracy underscores the youth league’s commitment to ensuring a fair and competitive process for selecting candidates, ultimately aimed at presenting a stronger, unified front against the ruling PDP. The youth league’s planned “Tinubu Loyalty Walk” further underscores their commitment to the party and its national leadership, while simultaneously serving as a platform to reiterate their demands for good governance and youth inclusion in Oyo State.
