By Olugbenga George
In the high-stakes chessboard of Oyo State politics, a dramatic move has just been made. The recent, forceful ejection of Hon. Saheed Akinaade Fijabi, a former member of the House of Representatives and a recognized “bright mind” within the All Progressives Congress (APC), from his own party’s youth summit in Ibadan is more than a mere internal squabble. It is a glaring signal of a deep-seated crisis within the opposition intge pace-setter state and a golden, unmissable opportunity for the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Governor Seyi Makinde’s strategic appointment of Fijabi to chair the prestigious Oyo State @ 50 Anniversary Committee was a masterstroke that has now ignited a political conflagration within the APC ranks. The subsequent rejection of Fijabi by APC youths, chanting “We don’t want him,” reveals a party struggling with intolerance and internal discord. For the PDP, Fijabi is no longer just an appointee; he has been involuntarily cast as the party’s most compelling new “bride.” The pressing question, however, is whether this political union will fortify the PDP’s foundations or extract a heavy price in the tumultuous run to 2027.
The APC’s decision to ostracize Saheed Fijabi is a profound strategic error born of emotional reaction rather than calculated political wisdom. By focusing solely on his acceptance of a non-partisan, state-building role, the APC has chosen to jettison one of its own proven assets by;
· Sacrificing Competence for Purity: Fijabi’s mandate to x-ray Oyo’s “challenges and triumphs” and lay a foundation for the next 50 years requires a depth of insight and administrative skill that transcends party affiliation. In forcing him out, the APC has not merely rejected a man; it has publicly rejected the value of experience and competence, sending a chilling message to other capable minds within its fold.
· The Youth as a Double-Edged Sword: While party youth are often the engine of energy and mobilization, the Ibadan summit incident showcases how this energy can quickly turn destructive when fueled by grievances. The APC’s inability to manage this internal dissatisfaction points to a deeper leadership void. This public display of discord projects an image of a party at war with itself, weakening its position as a credible alternative to the electorate.
This self-inflicted wound has created a perfect political storm, opening a corridor of opportunity that the PDP must navigate with “swiftness and precision.”
For the PDP in Oyo State, the objective is clear, but the path is fraught with complexity. Simply inviting Fijabi is the easiest step; the real task is a tactical, bold, and seamless integration that resuscitates the party’s vigor. PDP leadership in Oyo must consider the following
1. A Symbolic and Substantive Coup: Successfully welcoming Fijabi would be a dual victory. Symbolically, it represents the PDP as a broad, welcoming platform for talented Nigerians, directly contrasting the APC’s exclusionary tactics. Substantively, it injects a seasoned legislator and administrator into the party’s structure, enhancing its intellectual and strategic capital ahead of 2027.
2. Solidifying the “Pillar State”: As one of the PDP’s remaining strongholds in the South-West, Oyo State’s stability is non-negotiable. Attracting figures like Fijabi helps consolidate this base by appealing to the moderate, performance-oriented electorate that may be disillusioned with the opposition’s current trajectory. It is a move to strengthen the pillar, not just decorate it.
3. Mitigating National Headwinds: The PDP faces significant challenges at the national level. A strong, unified, and strategically savvy chapter in Oyo can serve as a critical buffer and a model for recovery. Integrating high-profile defectors successfully is key to building this internal resilience and demonstrating the party’s enduring appeal.
Embracing the “bride” will not be without its costs. The PDP must be prepared to manage the consequent political dynamics with extreme care.
· Internal Resentment: Existing party stalwarts who have laboured for years may view a high-profile entrant with suspicion, fearing sidelining. The leadership must ensure Fijabi’s integration does not come at the expense of loyal party foot soldiers. A delicate balance of recognition and reward is essential.
· The “Fair-Weather” Narrative: The APC will inevitably weaponize Fijabi’s move, painting him and the PDP as opportunistic. The PDP’s counter-narrative must be robust: it is not exploiting a situation but providing a sanctuary for governance-focused individuals marginalized by partisan extremism. The focus must remain on service and state development.
· The 2027 Litmus Test: Ultimately, this move will be judged by electoral success. Fijabi’s value will be measured by his ability to mobilize his network and contribute to delivering votes. The party must set clear, realistic expectations and integrate him into a structure where his talents directly translate into political capital.
In conclusion, the spectacle in
Ibadan was more than a protest; it was a pivotal moment of political realignment. Hon. Saheed Fijabi, through no initial design of his own, now stands at a crossroads with the power to influence Oyo State’s political future. The APC, by choosing purge over pragmatism, has gambled with its future.
For Governor Seyi Makinde and the PDP, the course is set. They must now move beyond “enticement” to a thoughtful, respectful, and strategic integration. If they succeed, they will not only gain a valuable asset but will also project an image of maturity and inclusiveness that is desperately needed in today’s polarized climate. The “bride” has arrived at the altar. The 2027 elections will be the testament to whether this political marriage was made in strategic heaven or shortsighted hell.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author, Olugbenga George, and are based on the reported political events. They do not necessarily reflect the official position of any political institution.
