Former Oyo State Commissioner for Works, Professor Raphael Afonja, has formally aligned with the Allied People’s Movement (APM). His declaration and readiness to work with other party leaders to strengthen its structure ahead of the 2027 general elections shifted the landscape of Oyo State politics.
Afonja made his position known during a meeting with the Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission, Bashorun Akinwale Wolekanle, and the Director-General of the Oyo State Project Monitoring Agency, Engineer Open Salawu, at Wolekanle’s residence in Bodija, Ibadan, on Sunday.
The meeting focused heavily on unity, reconciliation, and strategies for mobilising support for the APM across Ogbomoso, Oyo State and Nigeria at large. Political analysts view this gathering as a direct response to changing voter sentiments and shifting party alliances. By consolidating power early, these prominent figures are positioning themselves to challenge the existing political status quo.
Wolekanle on the Allied People’s Movement Oyo Strategy
Speaking at the gathering, Bashorun Akinwole said the party was determined to build a formidable political platform capable of delivering electoral victories in future elections.
Wolekanle, the Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission, emphasised that building a united front is the only way forward. He noted that Professor Afonja’s decision to join the APM would further strengthen the party’s growing influence in Ogbomoso and other parts of the state.
The strategic importance of Ogbomoso in Oyo politics cannot be overstated. As a key voting bloc, winning over this region remains critical for any party eyeing success in the 2027 general elections.
According to him, leaders and stakeholders within the party have resolved to close ranks and work together in the collective interest of Ogbomoso, Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
The party leadership intends to launch aggressive membership drives in the coming weeks. They plan to target youth demographics and disillusioned members from rival political platforms.
“We are closing ranks to work together and deliver massive votes for the APM. We will ensure that all stakeholders are carried along as we continue to build a united and formidable political family,” Wolekanle said.
Professor Raphael Afonja: APM Commitment to Progress
Professor Afonja, while expressing his commitment to the party, said the time had come for progressive-minded leaders to unite and provide credible political leadership for the people. His entry into the Allied People’s Movement’s Oyo structural framework brings both academic prestige and administrative experience.
He stressed the need for cooperation among political actors, adding that his decision to join the APM was informed by the desire to contribute to the development of Ogbomoso and Oyo State.
Afonja’s previous tenure as the Commissioner for Works provides him with deep insights into infrastructure gaps. He intends to use this knowledge to craft policies that resonate with everyday citizens. His supporters believe his clean track record will attract undecided voters who desire rapid regional development.
Oyo State Politics: Uniting for the 2027 General Elections
Engineer Open Salawu
The Director-General of the Oyo State Project Monitoring Agency also welcomed the development. He expressed confidence that the collaboration among the trio would strengthen the party’s structure and position it for greater success in the coming elections. Salawu noted that monitoring public projects has shown him that citizens want real results, which this new alliance promises to deliver.
As the countdown to the 2027 general elections continues, more political heavyweights are expected to declare their interests. For now, the successful integration of Professor Raphael Afonja’s operations signals that the party is ready to contend at the highest level.
