Crisis in Ogun APC: Ibikunle Amosun Faces Rejection, Loyalty Questions Ahead of Primaries
Crisis in Ogun APC: Ibikunle Amosun Faces Rejection, Loyalty Questions Ahead of Primaries
Fresh political tensions have emerged within the Ogun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as former governor and senator representing Ogun Central, Ibikunle Amosun, faces strong resistance from party stakeholders over his political ambitions.
Multiple sources within the party revealed that Amosun was recently denied a consensus candidacy by fellow aspirants, signaling a significant decline in his influence within the Ogun Central political structure. In a further show of discontent, key political leaders across Ogun Central reportedly signed a joint petition addressed to Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC National Working Committee (NWC), raising serious concerns about Amosun’s loyalty to the party.
According to insiders, the petition highlighted repeated instances where Amosun allegedly worked against the interests of the APC—actions they claim have negatively impacted the party’s cohesion and electoral performance in the state. Party leaders reportedly expressed fears that if granted the party’s senatorial ticket again, Amosun could undermine the APC’s chances, particularly if his preferred candidates are not favored in other key contests, including the governorship race.
Beyond these concerns, sources disclosed that many leaders in Ogun Central have had strained relationships with the former governor, citing what they described as “unpleasant political experiences” during his time in power. Apart from the few individuals who recently confronted him at a stakeholders’ meeting, several others are said to have quietly withdrawn their support over unresolved grievances. This growing disaffection, insiders claim, has significantly contributed to his rejection and has weakened his standing within the party hierarchy.
Political observers point to past elections as evidence of these concerns. In 2019, after his preferred governorship candidate, Adekunle Akinlade, failed to secure the APC ticket, Amosun backed his defection to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), a move widely seen as a protest against the party’s decision. Despite remaining the APC senatorial candidate for Ogun Central, the episode created deep divisions within the party.
A similar pattern reportedly played out in 2023, when political allies linked to Amosun were said to have aligned with the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), supporting its governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu, in a bid to unseat the incumbent governor. However, the effort ultimately failed.
These developments have reportedly weakened Amosun’s political base, with many of his former loyalists distancing themselves from him. Sources claim that several of his grassroots supporters have now aligned with other emerging power blocs within the APC, leaving his once-strong political structure significantly diminished. Insiders further argue that with the current political alignment and level of opposition against him, Amosun faces an uphill battle and may struggle to secure victory in the party’s primary election.
Further controversy recently surfaced when Amosun allegedly accused the current Ogun Central senator of disrespecting a fellow lawmaker. The accusation was swiftly denied, with the senator countering by recounting past grievances involving Amosun’s leadership decisions. He claimed that Amosun once blocked his appointment as Postmaster General, despite having been cleared, with the position eventually going to Bisi Adegbuyi.
Another party figure, Bode Mustapha, also reportedly shared a similar experience, alleging that he was denied the chairmanship of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) board after clearance, with the role instead given to another nominee.
Meanwhile, speculation continues to grow over Amosun’s next political move. A reliable source disclosed that the former governor may be exploring alternative platforms, including possible talks with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the PDP. The source further hinted at alleged political alignments involving Atiku Abubakar and Seyi Makinde, suggesting a broader strategy ahead of future elections.
The uncertainty is compounded by the increasing number of aspirants contesting the Ogun Central senatorial ticket under the APC. Notably, figures such as Lanre Tejuoso and others have obtained nomination forms, signaling a competitive primary race with no clear consensus candidate.
Efforts to reach Senator Amosun for comments on these developments were unsuccessful as of press time. However, sources indicate that his response will be published once made available, especially if it contradicts the claims currently circulating within political circles.
