The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expelled former Minister of Interior and ex-Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, over allegations of anti-party activities.
Aregbesola, who served two terms as Osun State governor, was the leader of a faction within the APC, The Osun Progressives (TOP), which later rebranded as the Omoluabi Caucus. His expulsion was confirmed in a letter from the APC leadership, sighted by newsmen on Wednesday.
Expulsion Based on Party Constitution Violations
The letter, titled “Allegations of Anti-Party Activities – Conveyance of State Exco Decision to You,” accused Aregbesola of breaching Article 21 of the APC constitution, which outlines disciplinary actions for party members.
“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 party leadership cited clear evidence that Aregbesola’s actions undermined the unity and integrity of the APC.
“As a result, you are no longer a member of the APC and must refrain from holding yourself out as one or acting on behalf of the party in any capacity,” the letter added.
Aregbesola’s Split With APC
The expulsion comes shortly after the Omoluabi Caucus, led by Aregbesola, announced its exit from the APC following a meeting on Sunday. The group cited the party’s diminishing influence in Osun State as a key reason for its departure.
Aregbesola, once a key ally of President Bola Tinubu, had been at loggerheads with the Osun APC leadership in recent years, particularly over the state’s political direction and internal party disputes. His faction’s activities were seen as a direct challenge to the party’s structure in the state.
What’s Next for Aregbesola?
With this formal expulsion, political analysts speculate that Aregbesola may align with a new political movement or party ahead of future elections. His next political steps will be closely watched, given his significant influence in Osun and the Southwest region.
