By Demola Akinyemi, Ilorin

Ahead of the 2027 general elections and the upcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) state primaries in Kwara, party members have cautioned the leadership against imposing unpopular candidates, warning that such actions could trigger mass defections, voter apathy, and protest votes against the ruling party.

In a statement issued by The Integrity Group, led by APC chieftain AbdulGaniyu Alani, members alleged that internal democracy within the party has been undermined, raising concerns that the opposition could capitalize on these internal divisions to cause an electoral upset.

“The opposition, believed to be regrouping under the leadership of Bukola Saraki, is closely monitoring developments, and may capitalise on the internal divisions within the ruling party,” the statement said.

The stakeholders cited instances where party executive lists were allegedly altered without due process, describing such actions as an abuse of party structure and a threat to unity.

The group called on the APC national leadership and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, stressing that failure to restore fairness, inclusiveness, and internal democracy in the state chapter could cost the party Kwara in 2027.

As immediate steps, the group recommended convening an urgent meeting of critical stakeholders—including APC National Assembly members, prominent gubernatorial aspirants, and other party leaders—to chart a way forward.

They further urged that any review of the situation in Kwara State should be led by respected national elders of the APC to ensure neutrality, credibility, and a lasting resolution.