Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency of Oyo State have agreed on a zoning arrangement to boost the party’s prospects in the 2027 general elections.
The resolution was reached during a meeting held on Tuesday in Igboora, headquarters of Ibarapa Central Local Government Area.
A communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, jointly presented by the Chairman, Francis Babalola, and the Secretary, T.A. Aderenle, indicated that more than 40 party leaders participated in the deliberations.
According to the communiqué, the adopted zoning formula assigns the House of Representatives ticket to Ibarapa North Local Government Area, while Ibarapa Central Local Government Area will produce the party’s candidate for the Oyo State House of Assembly.
The stakeholders described the arrangement as binding, stressing that it reflects the collective will of party members at the grassroots and is essential for sustaining unity within the constituency.
They cautioned that any move to alter the agreement could disrupt the growing cohesion within the party.
“The position of the grassroots is clear and unified. Any deviation from this arrangement will be viewed as a disregard for the collective interest of the constituency,” the communiqué stated.
The leaders further noted that compliance with the zoning structure would serve as a test of discipline and loyalty among party members, adding that adherence is crucial to achieving electoral success.
They explained that the decision was informed by the party’s experience in the 2023 general elections, where internal disagreements were blamed for its poor outing in the constituency and the state at large.
Describing the consensus as a step towards strengthening internal coordination, the stakeholders said it would help eliminate uncertainty and promote a more strategic political approach.
They also warned against interference from external actors, insisting that decisions concerning the constituency should remain the prerogative of local party stakeholders.
According to them, attempts to override the agreement could trigger resistance and weaken the party’s support base.
The communiqué added that the zoning arrangement has already begun to inspire renewed confidence among members, noting that sustained commitment to the framework would be key to consolidating progress and enhancing the party’s competitiveness in 2027.
