The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Alhaji Olayide Abas, has reassured party members that the upcoming direct primaries for the 2027 elections will be conducted with absolute transparency.

Speaking to journalists in Ibadan, the chairman emphasized that the party leadership is committed to a process that is free, fair, and credible, ensuring that the will of the grassroots members is reflected in the emergence of candidates.

Abas noted that the decision to adopt direct primaries is aimed at deepening internal democracy and giving every card-carrying member a sense of ownership in the party’s success. He dismissed concerns regarding potential interference, asserting that nothing will hinder the party from following the constitutional guidelines and providing a level playing field for all aspirants across the state.

The chairman’s remarks come at a time when various interest groups within the Oyo APC are beginning to align behind potential gubernatorial and legislative contenders.

By making this early commitment to a transparent process, the party leadership hopes to avoid the internal frictions that have historically polarized the state chapter during primary seasons.

Central to the chairman’s message was the theme of reconciliation. He urged aggrieved members who may still be feeling the effects of past congresses to return to the fold, highlighting that a united front is the only way to unseat the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State. He stressed that the party’s primary focus must remain on reclaiming the Agodi Government House.

Abas also commended the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC for providing the necessary support and autonomy to state chapters to organize their internal affairs. He assured the national leadership that Oyo State would serve as a model for how a peaceful and inclusive direct primary should be conducted in the South-West region.

As the political clock ticks toward 2027, the Oyo APC leadership has begun mobilizing its structures at the ward and local government levels. The chairman concluded by calling on all aspirants to conduct their consultations with decorum, reminding them that the ultimate goal is to present a unified and formidable team for the general elections.