Ogun APC rejects division claims, says ‘Caucus politics’ misinterpreted

Chinedum Ukaegbu

All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State has firmly pushed back against growing claims of internal division, insisting that the party remains a unified political structure despite rising narratives of caucus dominance and camp politics within its ranks.

This clarification comes at a critical moment as political activities intensify ahead of the 2026 election cycle, with increased public scrutiny on the internal dynamics of the ruling party in the state.

Speaking during an appearance on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Olufemi Nuberu, dismissed suggestions of factionalisation as exaggerated and largely rooted in misinterpretation of internal political engagement.

According to him, what is often described in public discourse as “camps” or “power blocs” does not reflect the constitutional reality of the APC’s structure.

“There is no caucus in APC in the way people are trying to present it in the public space,” Nuberu said.

“APC is one in Ogun State, with a clearly defined structure from the ward level to the state level. We do not operate parallel systems or duplicate leadership. What we have is one party, one structure, and one leadership.”

In recent weeks, political conversations across Ogun State have been dominated by reports suggesting the emergence of competing interests within the APC, particularly in the Ogun East Senatorial District.

The situation gained traction following a controversial political meeting held at Adeola Odutola Hall in Ijebu-Ode, where allegations surfaced that certain prominent party figures were excluded or restricted from participating.

Among those mentioned in the public discourse was former governor and current senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, whose reported experience at the meeting fueled widespread debate about inclusivity and internal democracy within the party.

However, Nuberu questioned the credibility of these claims, attributing much of the narrative to unverified social media reports.

“A good judge does not act on hearsay,” he said. “In this era of digital manipulation, we must be careful about what we accept as evidence. As far as the party is concerned, there has been no formal complaint indicating that anyone was denied access to a meeting.”

The APC spokesman stressed that informal alignments among political actors should not be mistaken for institutional divisions.

He explained that consultations among stakeholders are a normal part of political engagement and do not override the authority of the party’s official organs.

According to him, while individuals may naturally gravitate toward certain leaders or tendencies, such affiliations do not amount to factionalisation as long as the party continues to operate under a single recognised structure.

“Influence is a natural part of politics,” he noted. “But influence must operate within the framework of the party’s constitution. What we do not have is a situation where different groups are issuing conflicting directives.”

Nuberu also addressed concerns surrounding reported suspensions of some party members, clarifying that the situation remains under review by the national leadership of the APC.

He described the current status as a “suspended suspension,” explaining that the party is maintaining the status quo pending final resolution.

“The national body has directed that no final decision be taken yet,” he said. “This means affected individuals are still within the party framework while due process continues.”

He emphasized that suspension does not automatically translate to expulsion, noting that internal disciplinary procedures must be carefully followed to ensure fairness and justice.

During the programme, callers expressed mixed reactions to the party’s position.
While some raised concerns about what they perceive as the growing dominance of certain individuals within the party, others defended the APC, arguing that influence is a natural feature of political systems.

One caller noted that even without formal factions, patterns of influence can create the impression of camps, raising questions about inclusivity and equal access within the party.

However, another caller countered that strong leadership does not necessarily imply division, stressing that unity should be measured by the party’s ability to function cohesively.

APC Reaffirms Unity Ahead of 2026
Responding to these concerns, Nuberu reiterated that influence does not equate to factionalisation as long as all activities remain subject to the authority of the party’s recognised organs.

He maintained that the APC in Ogun State continues to operate under a unified and constitutionally guided structure capable of managing internal disagreements without descending into crisis.

As the 2026 elections approach, the party insists that its strength lies in its ability to absorb tensions and resolve disputes internally, rather than allowing them to escalate into public conflict.

Nuberu concluded by urging party members and the public to rely on verified information and official communication, warning against the dangers of speculation in shaping political narratives.

According to him, despite the noise in the public space, the APC in Ogun State remains “one indivisible entity,” committed to unity, discipline, and organisational order as it prepares for the next electoral cycle.