By Elder David Oluokun
The reconciliation efforts within the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have received a boost following a strategic meeting involving former Deputy Governor, Engr. Rauf Olaniyan, and other prominent party figures at the residence of former First Lady of the state, Chief (Mrs.) Kemi Alao-Akala.
The meeting, according to sources familiar with the development, was part of ongoing efforts to unite members of the opposition party ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Among those said to have aligned with the party’s governorship candidate, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, were Olaniyan; Hon. Hakeem Alao; Hon. Ashanike, a former chairman of the Oyo State Pacesetters Football Club and APC chieftain; and Hon. Bakare, an APC chieftain and grassroots mobiliser.
The development is being viewed within the party as a significant step towards resolving internal differences and strengthening the APC ahead of the next governorship contest.
The meeting was hosted by Alao-Akala, whose political structure remains influential in the state. Participants reportedly discussed the need for unity, reconciliation and greater coordination among party leaders and stakeholders.
The development is also coming on the heels of efforts by the Oyo APC Reconciliatory Committee to bring together members and leaders who had been divided by internal disagreements.
The committee has reportedly been engaging stakeholders across the state as part of measures to forge a common front ahead of the 2027 elections.
Sources at the meeting said the participants agreed on the need for a unified party structure, intensified grassroots mobilisation and greater cooperation among APC leaders and supporters.
They were also said to have resolved to work towards strengthening Alli’s candidacy and expanding the party’s support base across the state.
The latest development is expected to boost the APC’s preparations for the 2027 election, particularly as the party seeks to challenge the ruling administration and present itself as a viable alternative to the electorate.
Supporters of Alli described the meeting as evidence that the reconciliation process was beginning to produce results, with more party leaders expected to participate in the process in the coming weeks.
