The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expelled a former governor of the state, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, over allegations of engaging in anti-party activities.
Aregbesola’s expulsion, announced on Wednesday, marked the culmination of a long-standing rift between his political faction, The Osun Progressives (TOP), and the party’s mainstream leadership.
The decision, contained in a letter signed by Osun APC Chairman, Hon. Tajudeen Lawal, and Secretary, Olabisi Kamoru, cited violations of Article 21 of the party’s constitution.
According to the letter titled “Allegations of Anti-Party Activities – Conveyance of State Exco Decision to You,” the party leadership accused Aregbesola of undermining APC’s unity and integrity, adding that he was given an opportunity to defend himself before a disciplinary committee.
“At the end of the investigation, the State Executive Committee (SEC) considered the report of the Disciplinary Committee. Having carefully reviewed the findings and recommendations, the SEC resolved to approve your immediate expulsion from the APC,” the letter read in part.
The APC leadership further stated that Aregbesola’s expulsion was based on “clear evidence of actions that weakened the party’s structure,” and as a result, he is no longer recognized as a member of the party.
“You cease to be a member of the APC and must refrain from holding yourself out as one or acting on behalf of the party in any capacity whatsoever,” the statement added.
Aregbesola’s Break from APC
The development follows a declaration by Aregbesola’s loyalists to sever ties with the APC, citing the party’s declining influence in Osun State.
During a meeting held in Ilesa on Sunday, members of The Osun Progressives, led by Aregbesola, formally announced their departure from the party.
The faction, which had been at odds with the Osun APC leadership, accused the party of deviating from its founding principles and failing to address concerns raised by grassroots members.
“We have observed a consistent decline in the party’s fortunes in Osun, and after extensive consultations, we have decided to take a new path,” a TOP member had stated during the meeting.
