Civil Society Accuses APC of Neglecting Internal Democracy

By Oluronke Kuku

Civil society groups has condemned the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State for allegedly imposing Governor Biodun Oyebanji as its consensus candidate for the 2026 gubernatorial election, citing a lack of internal democracy and transparency.

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups (COCSG) claims that Oyebanji’s candidacy is a result of a flawed process, where legitimate aspirants were screened out without cogent reasons, and the party’s leadership opted for a consensus arrangement that rewards mediocrity over merit.

“We are not unaware of the provision for consensus candidates in the APC constitution, but this approach deviates from decent and guiding rules,” said Comrade Oladimeji Olakunle Olatunji, President of COCSG. “The kind of consensus that gave birth to Governor Oyebanji as APC’s 2026 gubernatorial candidate lacks credibility and ingredients of internal democracy.”

The coalition argues that Oyebanji’s administration has failed to deliver on key sectors such as education, healthcare, job creation, and infrastructure, making him unfit for re-election. They also condemn the marginalization and humiliation of other aspirants within the party, alleging false accusations and discrimination.

The COCSG warns that these undemocratic actions have far-reaching implications for the 2026 general elections and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political future, potentially undermining the APC’s electoral prospects and reducing citizen participation in politics.

The coalition calls on President Tinubu to intervene and urge the APC’s National Working Committee to review Oyebanji’s selection, reinstate screened-out aspirants, and ensure future primaries and adhere to transparency, equity, and internal democracy.