A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Adewale Kareem, has urged party members in Oyo State to disregard media reports suggesting the emergence of “consensus candidates” ahead of the 2027 governorship election, warning that such narratives could destabilise the party.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Kareem said his attention had been drawn to “recent reports circulating in some sections of the media suggesting the emergence of certain individuals as ‘consensus candidates’… including our dear Oyo State,” stressing that “fanning the embers of such speculation at this stage only serves to create unnecessary discord within the progressive fold.”

He cautioned party faithfuls to differentiate between political projections and established party procedures, noting that “in the buildup of the road to 2027, we must distinguish between strategic political narratives and the actual constitutional processes of our great party.”

According to him, “our focus must remain on strengthening the party’s structures rather than entertaining premature conclusions.”

Kareem also warned against what he described as calculated political manoeuvres aimed at promoting certain aspirants, stating that “various interest groups often deploy ‘mind games’… to project specific names into the national talking points.”

However, he insisted that “leadership is far too serious a business to be reduced to mere optics or backdoor orchestrations.”

He emphasised that the process of selecting a gubernatorial candidate must reflect the collective will of party members, adding that “the emergence of a flag bearer must be a reflection of the genuine will and wide acceptance of the party faithful.”

He further declared that “we must move away from the era of ‘engineered consensus’ and embrace a culture where merit, vision, and a proven track record are the primary yardsticks.”

The APC stalwart reiterated his call for internal discipline, warning that “no member or interest group should engage in activities that preempt discord or trigger an internal crisis within our ranks.”

He stressed that all members “must subscribe to the established democratic means and procedures provided by the APC constitution,” adding that any attempt to bypass due process “is not only an affront to the founding fathers of our party but a disservice to millions of Nigerians.”
On the issue of consensus,

Kareem maintained that while he remains committed to due process, he is confident in his credentials if the party adopts that route.

“If the party, in its wisdom… decides to move toward a consensus arrangement in Oyo State, I am firm in my conviction that the APC will find in me the most suitable candidate,” he said.

He argued that his experience and vision position him strongly, noting that “my record as a researcher, academic and a patriot… and the ‘Realistic Tomorrow’ vision, speak for themselves,” adding that “if consensus is to be based on competence, integrity, and the ability to win, “then my candidacy is the most viable path to victory.”

Kareem concluded by urging unity within the party and warning against divisive narratives, stating, “we must not allow ourselves to be distracted by speculative headlines designed to favour those pushing it alone.”

He also expressed confidence in the state leadership of the APC, led by Moses Alake Adeyemo, to ensure “a peaceful, rancour-free, and highly fair decision-making process” ahead of the 2027 polls.