The political landscape of Osun State has been significantly altered by the recent departure of the Omoluabi Progressives from the All Progressives Congress, APC, and the subsequent expulsion of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola from the party.
The departure of the Omoluabi Progressives and the expulsion of Rauf Aregbesola from the APC have elicited mixed reactions among Osun State residents.
While some view these events as necessary steps towards political clarity, others express concern about potential instability.
These events have elicited reactions from residents concerning the state’s political future.
Apart from Aregbesola’s expulsion, many residents view the exit of the Omoluabi Progressives from the Osun APC as a long-anticipated development.
Adebayo Olatunji, a civil servant in Osogbo, remarked, “This has been brewing for years. The internal conflicts were evident, and it is no surprise they have finally parted ways. The faction’s departure was inevitable due to prolonged internal strife.”
Some community members also expressed apprehension about the potential impact on the state’s political stability.
Funke Adeyemi, a market trader in Ayegbaju, stated, “I’m worried about what this means for us. Political fights often trickle down to affect the common people. There are concerns that political discord could disrupt governance and economic activities.”
The APC’s official response to the Omoluabi Progressives’ departure has been dismissive, stating that their absence will not be felt.
Kola Olabisi, the Osun State APC Director of Media and Information, labeled the group’s exit as “good riddance to bad rubbish.”
Arogidigba Global Journal recalled that many members loyal to Rauf Aregbesola had already been expelled or suspended prior to their announcement.
However, supporters of Aregbesola argue that the APC’s stance undermines the contributions of a leader who played a pivotal role in the party’s establishment in Osun State.
Tunde Bakare, a student, commented, “Aregbesola’s efforts built this party here. It is disheartening to see him treated this way. Many of us feel loyalty should be acknowledged and respected.”
The expulsion of Aregbesola from the APC has further polarized opinions.
While the party cites anti-party activities as the primary reason, some residents perceive it as a strategic move to consolidate power.
“It is politics as usual. Eliminate threats to maintain control,” said Kehinde Afolabi, a political analyst based in Osun.
In response to these developments, the Omoluabi Progressives have expressed intentions to realign politically ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
Aregbesola, addressing his supporters on Sunday before the official announcement of quitting the APC, stressed the need for responsible leadership to elevate Osun State.
He stated, “We have the numbers, strength, and political acumen to provide leadership that will make Osun the toast of its peers.”
This assertion has been met with both optimism and skepticism, with some residents being hopeful for a revitalized political movement that prioritizes good governance, while others doubt the feasibility of such ambitions given the current political climate.
The internal conflicts within the APC have not gone unnoticed by the public, and many believe that these disputes have contributed to the party’s declining influence in Osun State.
“The infighting has weakened the party’s standing. They need to resolve their issues to regain trust,” suggested Bimpe Oladipo, a school teacher in Ede.
On the other hand, some residents feel that the departure of dissenting factions could lead to a more unified and effective party structure.
“Without the constant bickering, maybe the APC can focus better on governance,” opined Sola Adekunle, a business owner in Ife.
The ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State has remained relatively silent on these developments but has extended an invitation to the group to join its fold.
However, political observers speculate that the PDP may capitalize on the APC’s internal turmoil to strengthen its position in the state.