Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, former Minister of Interior, Suspended by Osun APC over Anti-Party Activities
The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken a decisive step in addressing internal issues and refocusing on leadership priorities as they gear up for upcoming elections. Aregbesola, who previously served as governor, has been suspended for allegedly engaging in activities that undermine the party’s unity and disrupt party unity at a critical time in Osun politics.
The APC has accused Aregbesola of fostering divisions within the party by creating a rival faction, which the state chapter believes has exacerbated internal rifts. For party leaders, his influence over certain groups has only deepened these divisions, ultimately harming the party’s unity.
A statement announcing the suspension, signed by the State Executive Committee (SEC), revealed that the decision was made following a review of the allegations and exercise of powers vested by Article 21(3) (vi) (c) of the party’s Constitution. The committee has set up a Disciplinary Committee to investigate the claims and provide Aregbesola with an opportunity to respond to the allegations of anti-party activities.
The committee has levelled the following allegations against Aregbesola:
– Factionalization of the party, including the creation of parallel structures, as seen in the recent video of their activities in Iwo.
– Working with opposition parties to undermine the APC in the state, as publicly announced at the Ataoja’s Palace on January 4, 2024, in Osogbo.
– Public outbursts against party leaders, including President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chief Bisi Akande, and Governor Gboyega Oyetola, among others.
– Refusal to participate in or support party activities in the state.
The suspension comes as a bold step for the Osun APC to address internal issues and refocus leadership priorities. As the situation develops, responses from Aregbesola’s camp are expected.
