Former members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the National Assembly and members of the party’s National Convention from Osun State have reiterated their commitment to the unity and progress of the party.
This was made known in a statement signed on Thursday, January 30 by notable former lawmakers, including
Rt. Hon. Patricia Etteh, Hon. Femi Fakeye, Hon. George Jolaoye, Hon. Bade Falade, Hon. Ismaila Kolawole , Hon. Ajibola Famurewa, Hon. Mrs. Ayo Omidiran, Hon. Yinka Ajayi, Hon. Gafar Amere, Hon. Rotimi Makinde, Hon. Nathaniel Agunbiade , Hon. Mojeed Alabi
Hon. Ayeni Babatunde, Hon. Taiwo Oluga, Hon. Yinusa Amobi and Hon. Bukola Oyewo.
The group expressed their dedication to fostering cohesion within the party under the leadership of Chief Bisi Akande and the Minister of Marine, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola.
“As former members of the APC in the National Assembly, representing the good people of Osun State, and as members of the National Convention, we reaffirm our commitment to the unity and progress of our great party in Osun State under the overall leadership of Chief Bisi Akande and His Excellency, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola,” the statement read.
The group also pledged allegiance to the state APC Chairman, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal, affirming their readiness to align with the party’s objectives.
Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, the leaders stated, “We pledge to work together with our dear Party APC, putting aside our differences, to promote the welfare and well-being of the people of Osun State.”
The group acknowledged the progress made by the party in Osun and expressed their commitment to supporting initiatives that would deliver democratic dividends to the people. They also emphasized the need for unity, peace, and mutual respect among party members, particularly during political contests.
“We note that the pursuit of legitimate ambitions and contentions are necessary ingredients of party democracy. We urge all members of our party to engage in healthy contestations with decorum and respect for the party’s constitution, regulations, rules, conventions, and practices,” the statement added.
They further urged APC supporters and Osun residents to remain steadfast in their loyalty to the party’s progressive ideals.
“As we navigate the complexities of our party’s politics, we urge you all to remember the importance of unity and peace. Our shared goal is to strengthen our party, not to tear it apart,” they emphasized.
The statement warned against infighting and power struggles within the party, which they said could undermine its strength. “Infighting and power struggles only serve to weaken our position and create opportunities for our opponents. Let us put aside personal interests and ambitions and instead focus on what will solidify our party’s chances of success,” they cautioned.
The group also commended Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola for his dedication and called for respect for his leadership. “Gov. Adegboyega Oyetola has led our party with dedication and commitment. Let us respect his leadership and allow him the right of first refusal,” they stated.
They urged party members to engage in constructive dialogue, robust policy debates, and grassroots mobilization to further strengthen the APC and its commitment to the people of Osun.
