The Oyo State chapter of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, has split into factions following the conduct of parallel state congresses on Saturday. The two exercises took place at separate locations within the Ibadan metropolis, highlighting deep internal divisions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
One congress was held at the party’s state office in the Oke Itunu area, while another group gathered at an event centre along the old Ife Road. This development follows similar parallel exercises previously conducted at the ward and local government levels across the state.
Olona-led faction vows to resist party hijack
The congress held at the Oke Itunu party office reaffirmed the leadership of the incumbent Chairman, Mr. Yinka Olona. The faction also elected Alhaji Tiamiyu Abidikugu as Deputy Chairman and Barrister Bimpe Adelowo as the State Publicity Secretary.
Mr. Olona and his newly elected executive members insisted that their exercise was the only legitimate one. They vowed to resist any attempt by external forces or “aggrieved” members to hijack the party’s structure in Oyo State.
Rival group elects Jimoh Adelowo as State Chairman
Meanwhile, the second congress held at the Ife Road event centre produced Hon. Jimoh Adelowo as the alternative State Chairman. This faction also appointed regional leaders, including Fatai Adelakun for Oyo South and Simeon Adegboye for Oyo Central senatorial districts.
The emergence of two sets of state executives has created confusion among party faithful regarding which leadership INEC will recognize. Political analysts suggest that these parallel structures could significantly weaken the ADC’s chances in the upcoming 2027 polls if not resolved.
Stakeholders call for urgent national intervention
The deepening crisis in the Oyo ADC has prompted calls for the national leadership of the party to intervene and reconcile the warring factions. Both groups currently claim to have followed the party’s constitution in conducting their respective congresses.
With the 2027 elections approaching, the division in Oyo State mirrors similar leadership tussles at the national level involving David Mark and other chieftains. The party now faces a race against time to unite its members and present a formidable front to the electorate.
