A former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in South Africa, Bola Babarinde, has described the defeat of the party in the Saturday’s by-election in Oyo State as disappointing.

The Peoples Democratic Party candidate, Folajimi Oyekunle, defeated his APC rival, Adewale Olatunji, by 18,530 votes to 8,266 to emerge winner of the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election.

Mr Babarinde, the General Secretary, Renewed Hope Global, stated this in a statement on Monday in Lagos.

He noted that the outcome of the poll should serve as a wake-up call for the APC to shun “man know man” politics ahead of 2027 general elections.

According to him, the outcome of the poll has once again raised troubling questions about the future of APC in the state.

He said, “The result was not only disappointing but also embarrassing for President Bola Tinubu, who has invested so much in repositioning the party at the national level. Oyo State has long regarded as the pacesetter in Nigerian politics and cannot afford to remain under PDP dominance if APC is to sustain its influence in the South-West and beyond.

“Reclaiming Oyo State will depend on credible leadership, the right candidates, and genuine grassroots mobilisation. The Ibadan North by-election should serve as a wake-up call. APC cannot continue with business as usual if it truly intends to reclaim Oyo State in 2027. With bold leadership, credible candidates, and people-centred strategies, the party can still wrestle power from PDP and re-establish Oyo as the true pace setter of Nigerian politics.’’

He raised concerns about the issue of the party leadership in the state, calling for a better approach towards winning elections in future.

He added, “The time has come for leadership to shift away from personality-driven politics and self-interest toward competence, service, and a clear vision for the people,”

The chieftain said that the party should be more decisive in candidate selection for 2027 general elections.

Mr Babarinde said: “APC must avoid the usual “man-know-man” politics or handing the ticket to the highest bidder. The governorship candidate must be one with capacity, integrity, and vision, someone capable of inspiring the electorate. History has also shown that Oyo politics is often most favourable when the governorship candidate emerges from Ibadan, a factor the party should weigh carefully in its calculations.”

He urged the party to equally avoid alliances with Governor Seyi Makinde of the state.

He said, “With his second term ending in 2027, Makinde has nothing to lose. APC must chart its own independent path, free from external manipulations or deceptive agreements.’’

Mr Babarinde noted that the electorate in Oyo State were increasingly disillusioned with recycled politicians.

He said that there was a need for fresh faces of capable individuals with international exposure, innovative political strategies, strong media presence, youth appeal, and proven records of empowerment.

He said that such candidates would ignite enthusiasm and mobilise young voters in ways that traditional names cannot.

He stated, “Winning back Oyo will take more than just a candidate; it will require strategic mobilisation. Money alone cannot secure victory. APC must run a campaign rooted in ideas, community engagement, and grassroots organization. Building trust through inclusive dialogues, people-oriented policies, and visible development initiatives will be essential in regaining credibility.’’

(NAN)