By Prof. Aderemi Suleiman Ajala
My attention has been drawn to an article authored by one Olawale Apara, who claims to be a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Iwo Local Government, Osun State. In his piece, he called for Dr. Ajibola Basiru to resign as the APC National Secretary due to his interest in the 2026 Osun State governorship election. The story, which I came across on social media, also asserted that Dr. Ajibola Basiru has already declared his intention to contest.
This claim is both laughable and shows a lack of understanding of the APC constitution and Nigeria’s democratic practices. The suggestion that a National Secretary should resign prematurely simply because of political ambition is not grounded in constitutional or ethical principles.
Constitutional Perspective
Section 31.2(iii) of the APC Constitution clearly states:
“Any Party officeholder interested in contesting for an elective office (whether party office or office in a general election) shall resign and leave office 30 days prior to the date of the election or Party primary for the office sought.”
Nowhere does the constitution of the APC—or any other political party in Nigeria—mandate the resignation of an officeholder a year before either the primary or the general election. Therefore, Olawale Apara’s demand is a personal conjecture, not backed by any legal provision.
Misguided Sentiments
Apara’s position seems driven by two major sentiments:
- Fear of Competence and Capacity: Dr. Ajibola Basiru is a highly competent and capable leader whose candidacy naturally stirs apprehension among competitors.
- Regional Bias: There appears to be a sectional agenda to push Dr. Ajibola Basiru out of the race in favor of a candidate from Osun West Senatorial Zone.
Both reasons are counterproductive to democratic development within the APC and could weaken the party’s chances in the 2026 election.
Clarifying Democratic Practices
It is important to educate the author on democratic practices within Nigerian political parties. Governors and Presidents are the highest party leaders in their respective states and at the national level. Despite their influence, they do not resign from office when seeking re-election. Therefore, it is baseless to fear that Dr. Ajibola Basiru’s position as National Secretary gives him undue advantage in the party’s governorship primary.
A Responsible and Ethical Politician
Dr. Ajibola Basiru is an honorable politician who upholds ethical standards. He understands that winning the governorship election requires hard work, not shortcuts or undue influence. His focus remains on presenting his distinguished personality and track record to the people of Osun State.
Rather than relying on zoning or maligning other contestants, Dr. Basiru has already established a high-profile campaign structure that spans across Osun State. He is fully prepared to earn the trust and support of the party members and the electorate through diligent and transparent engagement.
In conclusion, there is no constitutional or ethical basis for Dr. Ajibola Basiru to resign prematurely as APC National Secretary. His candidacy is legitimate, and he will abide by the APC constitution when the time for resignation is constitutionally appropriate.
Thank you.
Prof. Aderemi Suleiman Ajala
