APC suspends former Minister Aregbesola

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended Rauf Aregbesola, the immediate past Minister of Interior, on grounds of alleged anti-party activities and outspoken criticisms directed at key figures within the party, including President Bola Tinubu and former Governor Chief Bisi Akande.

Aregbesola, also a two-term Governor of Osun State, had publicly opposed the re-election of his successor, Adegoyega Oyetola, aligning with opposition forces in the 2022 Osun governorship and 2023 general elections. In 2022, he made statements suggesting he prayed for the downfall of the party’s leadership, a remark that sparked widespread backlash.

The APC leadership in Ward 8, Ifofin, Ilesa, where Aregbesola hails from, launched a disciplinary investigation into these accusations. Following the committee’s findings, Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal, alongside Secretary Alao Kamoru, confirmed his suspension in an October 24 letter. This suspension is based on six counts of alleged anti-party actions, which include forming splinter groups, creating parallel party structures, and collaborating with opposition parties. The decision aligns with Article 21(3) (vi) (c) of the APC Constitution, empowering the State Executive Committee to enact disciplinary measures.

The APC’s National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has received a formal notice confirming Aregbesola’s suspension.