By Our Correspondent
National News – Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency of Oyo State have unanimously agreed on a zoning formula to guide the party’s political structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The decision was taken during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Tuesday in Igboora, the headquarters of Ibarapa Central Local Government Area.
The meeting brought together more than 40 party leaders who discussed strategies to strengthen the party and prevent internal divisions before the next electoral cycle.
According to a communiqué issued after the gathering, the stakeholders agreed that the APC ticket for the House of Representatives would be zoned to Ibarapa North Local Government Area, while Ibarapa Central Local Government Area would produce the party’s candidate for the Oyo State House of Assembly.
Party leaders explained that the zoning arrangement was designed to ensure fairness, maintain unity among members, and improve the party’s chances of winning elections in the constituency.
The communiqué was jointly read by the constituency chairman, Francis Babalola, and the secretary, T.A. Aderenle.
They stated that the agreement reflects the collective position of grassroots members and local leaders across the constituency.
According to them, the zoning formula is considered a “non-negotiable” framework aimed at stabilising the party and strengthening internal cooperation.
Stakeholders warned that attempts to alter or undermine the arrangement could weaken the unity currently emerging within the constituency.
They stressed that the zoning decision represents the wishes of party members at the grassroots level and should be respected by all interested aspirants and political actors.
Party leaders also said the decision was influenced by lessons learned from the 2023 general elections.
They noted that internal disagreements and lack of coordination contributed to the party’s poor performance in parts of the state.
By introducing a clear zoning structure, the APC leadership hopes to eliminate uncertainty, encourage collaboration among members, and build a stronger campaign platform ahead of 2027.
The stakeholders further cautioned against external interference, emphasising that political decisions affecting the constituency must remain the responsibility of local party members.
They added that maintaining the zoning framework would help rebuild confidence among supporters and position the APC as a competitive force in the upcoming elections.
