The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has expelled former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola. Aregbesola, who also served as Interior Minister for eight years, was expelled by the APC due to claims of engaging in anti-party conduct.
It has been reported that the former minister established a faction within the party’s Osun chapter, referred to as “The Osun Progressives” (TOP).
Now renamed the Omoluabi Caucus, this faction of the APC in Osun has been accused of significantly contributing to the party’s defeat in the 2022 gubernatorial election.
During a meeting held on Sunday, the faction declared its decision for members to leave the APC, citing the party’s decreasing popularity in Osun State.
In a letter suspending the former governor, the APC said that investigations revealed Aregbesola was indeed guilty of the alleged anti-party conduct.
The letter, “Allegations of Anti-Party Activities – Conveyance of State Exco Decision to You,” charged the former minister with actions against the party’s interests.
“Having carefully considered the findings and recommendations of the Committee, SEC has resolved to accept the recommendation of your immediate expulsion from the All-Progressives Congress, APC.
“The decision was predicated on the clear evidence of your actions, which undermined the unity and integrity of the Party in violation of the provisions of Article 21 of the APC Constitution guiding the conduct and discipline of members,” the letter stated.
It explained that the decision to expel Aregbesola was made following inquiries conducted by the disciplinary committee and its recommendations to the State Executive Committee (SEC).
