The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has warned that practices such as structure manipulation, influence peddling and transactional politics have no place in the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He stated this at the party’s state congress held on Tuesday at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, where new state executives were elected through a consensus arrangement.
Abiodun maintained that the APC is founded on progressive governance, inclusiveness, accountability and people-centred development. He argued that while political manoeuvres may yield short-term advantages, they ultimately erode institutional integrity and public trust.
“Influence peddling, manipulation of structures, and transactional politics have no place in a progressive party like ours. Such practices may create divisions for short-term advantage, but ultimately weaken our institutions, diminish trust, and erode the moral authority upon which enduring political processes are built,” he said.
The governor further stressed that party leadership must embody transparency and accountability, noting that offices within the executive structure are strategic rather than ceremonial.
He urged the newly elected officials to uphold the party’s constitution, promote unity across ideological lines and resolve internal disputes constructively.
“Strengthen structures from ward to state level. Ensure inclusiveness of youth, women, and all others. Remain accessible like public property, remain transparent and accountable. And finally, mobilize effectively and consistently at the grassroots. Your offices are not ceremonial; they are strategic,” he added.
The congress, supervised by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and chaired by the State Congress Committee under Wale Ohu, saw 1,180 delegates participate in the consensus election.
Chief Yemi Sanusi was re-elected as state chairman for a second term. In his acceptance speech, he pledged an inclusive administration aimed at strengthening party unity and preparing for future elections.
“This is not a victory for me alone, but a victory for the progressive ideals we stand for. We will run an inclusive administration that will accommodate every stakeholder and ensure that our party remains united and strong ahead of future elections,” Sanusi stated.
INEC officials and the returning officer declared the process free, fair and compliant with the APC constitution, urging the new executive to prioritise unity and strategic mobilisation as the party positions itself for the 2027 electoral cycle.
Political observers see the congress as a test of internal cohesion within the APC, with party leaders emphasising that sustainable success will depend on disciplined governance and broad-based participation at the grassroots level.