APC Suspends Former Minister Aregbesola

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended Rauf Aregbesola, the former Minister of Interior, due to alleged anti-party activities and public criticisms aimed at prominent party members, including President Bola Tinubu and former Governor Chief Bisi Akande.

Aregbesola, a two-term Governor of Osun State, openly opposed the re-election of his successor, Adegoyega Oyetola, and aligned himself with opposition forces during the 2022 Osun gubernatorial election and the 2023 general elections.

In 2022, he made remarks suggesting he hoped for the failure of the party’s leadership, which drew significant criticism.

The APC leadership in Ward 8, Ifofin, Ilesa, Aregbesola’s home area, initiated a disciplinary investigation into the allegations. Following the committee’s review, Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal and Secretary Alao Kamoru confirmed his suspension in a letter dated October 24.

This action is based on six counts of alleged anti-party behavior, including forming splinter groups, establishing parallel party structures, and collaborating with opposition parties.

The decision is in accordance with Article 21(3)(vi)(c) of the APC Constitution, which grants the State Executive Committee the authority to impose disciplinary actions.

The APC’s National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has received formal notification regarding Aregbesola’s suspension.