2027: APC youth call for caution in selecting guber candidates in Oyo, Ogun, Lagos

From Romanus Ugwu, Abuja

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Nigerian youth in the All Progressives Congress (APC) have cautioned the national leadership of the ruling party to exercise caution in selecting governorship candidates, particularly in Oyo, Ogun and Lagos States.

They warned that poor choices could threaten the party’s fortunes in the South West and potentially undermine President Bola Tinubu’s re-election prospects in the region.

The political advocacy group, under the auspices of the Oyo APC Youth League, also warned against politicians, who previously failed in governorship bids but are preparing to contest again in 2027.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja by the group’s spokesman, Taorid Olawale, the youth urged the party to prioritise integrity, credibility and grassroots acceptance in selecting candidates for key states in the South West.

They noted that in Yorubaland, the personal history and public reputation of political aspirants remain critical factors in determining electoral support.

“Voters in the region expect candidates whose lives demonstrate honesty, service and genuine connection to the grassroots,” the statement said.

It warned that presenting aspirants with questionable records or widespread public distrust could damage the credibility of the party and weaken its electoral chances in the region, especially in Oyo State.

The group also noted the political importance of Ibadan and drew attention to the counsel of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, describing him as a respected technocrat, former senator and former governor whose voice remains influential.

“Some individuals seeking political office carry heavy baggage of public distrust. Their past actions are well known to the public and could be used against the party during elections,” the statement added.

The youths urged the APC leadership to ensure that its eventual candidates possess unquestionable integrity, broad public acceptance and the ability to command respect across political and social divides.