Fresh cracks have emerged within the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State following a reported violent incident at the party’s secretariat in Ibadan, raising concerns about internal divisions at the grassroots level.
Hon. Gafar Oyebade, a prominent APC figure in Lagelu Local Government Area, who received medical treatment after allegedly being assaulted during a party meeting. He accused Hon. Olafisoye Akinmoyede, a member of the House of Representatives representing Akinyele/Lagelu Federal Constituency, of leading the attack.
According to Oyebade, the incident occurred during a meeting attended by key party officials, including the state chairman and secretary. What began as a disagreement reportedly escalated when he attempted to address lingering factional issues within the party.
Oyebade claimed he was repeatedly interrupted while speaking, particularly by Akinmoyede, popularly known as “Lafi,” before the situation turned physical. He further alleged that some party executives present did not intervene but instead restrained him while the assault was ongoing.
“I was held down while being beaten,” Oyebade said, describing the incident as a coordinated attack. He specifically mentioned the involvement of local government party officials, including chairman Taufiq Aroomale and another figure identified as Alaaki.
Following the altercation, Oyebade sustained injuries, including cuts to his lips and a suspected dislocation of his hand. He was taken to the Police Hospital in Eleyele, Ibadan, for treatment.
Legal steps have since been initiated. Oyebade confirmed that his lawyer has filed a petition with the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, calling for a full investigation. He also stated that additional actions would be pursued to ensure accountability.
However, those accused have denied the allegations. Akinmoyede reportedly dismissed the claims, insisting that no assault took place, while another party official said no violence was witnessed at the meeting.
The conflicting accounts have intensified controversy within the party, with members divided over what transpired.
Beyond the immediate incident, the development has spotlighted deeper factional tensions within the APC in Oyo State. Insiders suggest that similar disputes are playing out across several local government chapters, contradicting public claims of party unity.
Political observers note that while internal disagreements are common, their escalation into violence raises serious concerns about discipline, leadership control, and the party’s public image.
In the aftermath, calls have grown for stricter internal regulation and a renewed commitment to peaceful engagement. Some party voices have warned against actions that could associate the APC with thuggery or erode respect for party leadership.
Oyebade has also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC’s national leadership to intervene, stressing the need for justice and reforms to prevent a recurrence.
As investigations begin, attention is now on how the party will respond. Analysts say the handling of the crisis could either restore confidence or further deepen divisions within the APC in Oyo State.