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The political atmosphere in Oyo State is set for another round of debate as the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced that it will not participate in the local government elections scheduled for December 2026.
The opposition party made its position known through a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Wasiu Olawale Sadare, describing the planned exercise as “illegal, ill-conceived and self-serving.”
According to the APC, participating in the election would amount to endorsing a process it believes does not promote genuine grassroots democracy. The party argued that the proposed poll would do little to improve governance at the local government level and instead strengthen political control from the state government.
Sadare accused Governor Seyi Makinde of lacking commitment to local government autonomy, alleging that the administration has maintained excessive influence over the affairs and resources of local councils.
“The whole world knows that Gov. Makinde does not believe in local government autonomy, and when it comes to democracy at the grassroots, he cannot be trusted for anything,” Sadare stated.
The APC spokesperson further claimed that local government councils in the state have not enjoyed the independence expected under a democratic system. According to him, residents are eager to see a return to what he described as true freedom and autonomy for the third tier of government.
The opposition party also accused the governor of attempting to extend his political influence beyond his tenure through the installation of loyalists in local government positions.
“The same Makinde is now trying to impose another set of lackeys who would be loyal to him even after leaving Agodi Government House,” Sadare alleged.
He argued that the timing of the election was politically motivated and designed to secure continued influence for the governor ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The APC’s decision to boycott the poll highlights the continuing political rivalry between the ruling administration and the opposition in Oyo State. While the party maintains that the election lacks credibility, the state government has consistently defended its approach to local governance and democratic processes.
As preparations for the December election continue, political observers will be watching closely to see how the boycott affects participation, voter confidence, and the overall conduct of the exercise.
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