“Rift in Osun APC: Aregbesola Expelled, Omoluabi Progressives Exit, What’s Next?”
The political landscape in Osun State has been dramatically altered following the departure of the Omoluabi Progressives from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the subsequent expulsion of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola from the party.
These events have sparked a wide range of reactions from the people of Osun State, with some viewing the developments as a necessary move towards political clarity, while others express concern over the potential instability it may bring.
For many, Aregbesola’s expulsion and the departure of the Omoluabi Progressives were long-anticipated, given the internal conflicts that had plagued the APC in the state for years. Adebayo Olatunji, a civil servant in Osogbo, remarked, “This has been brewing for years. The internal conflicts were evident, and it is no surprise they have finally parted ways. The faction’s departure was inevitable due to prolonged internal strife.”
However, some residents worry about the consequences for the state’s political stability. Funke Adeyemi, a market trader in Ayegbaju, expressed concerns, saying, “I’m worried about what this means for us. Political fights often trickle down to affect the common people. There are concerns that political discord could disrupt governance and economic activities.”
In response to the departure, the APC’s official stance has been dismissive, with Kola Olabisi, the Osun State APC Director of Media and Information, describing the exit as “good riddance to bad rubbish.”
The party had already expelled or suspended several members loyal to Aregbesola, but supporters of the former governor argue that the APC’s treatment of Aregbesola undermines the significant role he played in the party’s establishment in Osun State. Tunde Bakare, a student, expressed disappointment, stating, “Aregbesola’s efforts built this party here. It is disheartening to see him treated this way. Many of us feel loyalty should be acknowledged and respected.”
The expulsion of Aregbesola has further deepened the divide. While the APC cites anti-party activities as the reason for his expulsion, others see it as a strategic move to consolidate power. Political analyst Kehinde Afolabi noted, “It is politics as usual. Eliminate threats to maintain control.”
In response to the turmoil, the Omoluabi Progressives have indicated their intentions to realign politically ahead of the 2026 governorship election. Aregbesola, speaking to his supporters before officially announcing his departure from the APC, asserted, “We have the numbers, strength, and political acumen to provide leadership that will make Osun the toast of its peers.” This statement has drawn mixed reactions, with some hopeful for a new political movement focused on good governance, while others remain skeptical about its potential in the current political climate.
The infighting within the APC has led many to believe it has weakened the party’s influence in the state. Bimpe Oladipo, a school teacher in Ede, pointed out, “The infighting has weakened the party’s standing. They need to resolve their issues to regain trust.”
On the other hand, some see the departure of dissenting factions as an opportunity for the APC to unify and refocus on governance. “Without the constant bickering, maybe the APC can focus better on governance,” said Sola Adekunle, a business owner in Ife.
Meanwhile, the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State has largely kept silent on the developments but has extended an invitation to the Omoluabi Progressives to join its ranks. Political observers speculate that the PDP may use the APC’s internal struggles to strengthen its own position in the state moving forward.
