A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Femi Ayinde, has called on the party in Oyo State to present what he described as an “undiluted” candidate ahead of the next governorship election, warning that a repeat of past strategies could lead to another defeat.

In a statement on Thursday, Ayinde argued that the APC would only stand a chance of returning to power in Oyo State if it abandons political compromises and internal arrangements that, according to him, have weakened the party in previous elections. He said the party must prioritize ideological clarity, competence, and loyalty in its choice of candidate.

Ayinde specifically endorsed Muyiwa Gbadegesin, describing him as a credible and uncompromised aspirant who embodies the progressive ideals of the APC. He maintained that Gbadegesin’s emergence would help address long-standing challenges within the party, including internal disunity and lacklustre campaigns.

“The APC in Oyo State has paid dearly for rewarding political opportunism under the guise of electability,” Ayinde said. “The result has been predictable—disunity, weak mobilisation, and electoral losses. The party needs a candidate with conviction, discipline, and a clear reform agenda.”
He added that Oyo State voters, particularly young people, are increasingly demanding accountability, competence, and fresh leadership, noting that familiar political faces without new ideas no longer resonate with the electorate.

Ayinde further argued that presenting Gbadegesin as the party’s flagbearer would energise party members, restore confidence among supporters, and offer residents a viable alternative to the current administration.

He urged the APC leadership in the state to make what he called a decisive and courageous choice, stressing that the party’s prospects in the next election would depend largely on the quality and credibility of its candidate.

“The decision before the APC is simple,” Ayinde said. “Either the party chooses to win with clarity and conviction, or it repeats old mistakes and faces another avoidable defeat.”