Tension flared on Wednesday at an All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Summit in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, as party youths openly protested against Saheed Akinaade Fijabi, forcing him out of the venue over his perceived association with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Fijabi’s presence at the summit triggered an immediate backlash from aggrieved youths, who accused him of betraying the APC following his recent engagement with the PDP-led administration in the state. He was recently appointed by Governor Seyi Makinde as Chairman of the Oyo @ 50 Anniversary Committee, a development that has continued to stir controversy within APC ranks.
Eyewitnesses said the atmosphere became charged moments after Fijabi walked into the hall, with youths chanting slogans such as “We don’t want him” and “Send him out of this place.” The chants quickly disrupted proceedings, despite efforts by organisers and party leaders to restore calm.
As tensions escalated, some APC members were compelled to escort Fijabi out of the venue to prevent the situation from degenerating further. The protests reportedly continued even as he was led away, bringing the programme to a temporary halt.
The incident has laid bare the simmering discontent within the APC in Oyo State, particularly among its youth wing, many of whom view Fijabi’s recent comments at the unveiling of the Oyo @ 50 logo—where he hinted at a possible defection to the PDP—as a breach of party loyalty.
