The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, over allegations of engaging in anti-party activities.
The announcement was made in a letter signed by the party’s Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, and Secretary, Alao Kamoru. The letter, addressed to the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, was shared with journalists on Tuesday in Osogbo.
According to the letter, the decision follows complaints raised by the executive committee of the APC in Ilesa East Local Government Area, accusing Aregbesola of undermining the party.
After reviewing the allegations, the State Executive Council (SEC) invoked Article 21(3)(vi)(c) of the party’s constitution to suspend Aregbesola, pending an investigation by a disciplinary panel.
The SEC explained that Aregbesola is accused of creating factional groups within the party, including the Omoluabi Caucus, establishing parallel party structures, collaborating with opposition parties, and publicly criticising APC leaders, including President Bola Tinubu.
Additional charges include his absence from party events and refusal to support or vote for the party in elections since 2019.
A disciplinary committee has been set up to investigate the allegations and allow Aregbesola to defend himself, with a report expected within 14 days.
The letter reaffirmed the party’s commitment to upholding discipline, stating:
“The disciplinary committee in pursuant to Article 21(3) will formally communicate this resolution to Aregbesola and inform him of his right to appear before it to defend himself against the allegations.”
It urged members to avoid actions that could harm the party’s unity and electoral prospects.
The statement concluded with a warning that the party will take further disciplinary measures against any members found violating its rules through anti-party activities.