The Omoluabi Progressives, a faction steered by former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, has formally declared its departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC). In a move underscored by discontent and allegations of internal marginalization, the group cited the exclusion, suspension, and outright expulsion of its leaders without due process as the primary catalyst for its decision.
In a statement unveiled by the faction’s Organising and Publicity Secretary, Oluwaseun Abosede, the group lamented the continuous erosion of the APC’s internal structure in Osun State. According to the statement, poor management of intra-party disputes and the party’s dwindling performance in recent elections have significantly tarnished its public image.
The resolution to sever ties with the APC was reportedly unanimous, following deliberations among members spanning 332 wards across the state during their monthly gathering in Ilesa. Abosede revealed that the decision was solidified through a voice vote, signaling the group’s readiness to align with a new political camp in preparation for the 2026 governorship elections.
Rauf Aregbesola, the former Minister of Interior, lauded the group’s unity and commitment to principles of integrity and governance. In his remarks, Aregbesola expressed optimism about the group’s ability to chart a new path for Osun State, emphasizing the importance of responsible leadership in fostering prosperity. He encouraged members to recruit like-minded individuals willing to embrace the ideals of the Omoluabi Progressives.
“Our journey is one of fortitude and clarity, guided by the pursuit of excellence and good governance. With steadfastness and collective resolve, we shall elevate Osun State to unparalleled heights,” Aregbesola asserted.
Meanwhile, the Osun State chapter of the APC has dismissed the faction’s exit as inconsequential. In a sharply-worded statement, the APC spokesperson, Chief Kola Olabisi, derided the group as a “rudderless collective” and described their departure as “good riddance to bad rubbish.”
Olabisi questioned the rationale behind the resignation announcement, arguing that many members of the faction had already been expelled or suspended. “Their decision to announce an exit after being ousted is nothing short of redundant theatrics,” he remarked.
He further accused the Omoluabi Progressives of serving as covert operatives for the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) while masquerading as APC loyalists. “Their departure only reinforces the APC’s strength, as we are unburdened by the distractions of individuals whose loyalties were always in question,” Olabisi added.
The APC also warned the faction of an impending political downfall, describing their efforts to form or join another party as the beginning of their “political obsequies.” Olabisi’s statement was laced with figurative language, likening the faction’s actions to burying an elder brother in a manner that foretells one’s own demise.
As the Omoluabi Progressives forge ahead with their political aspirations, the unfolding dynamics in Osun’s political landscape remain a spectacle to watch. Whether this departure signifies the birth of a formidable opposition or merely the swan song of a fractured faction is a narrative only time will unravel.
