Tensions flared at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Oyo Youth Summit in Ibadan on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, as party members vociferously rejected former lawmaker Saheed Fijabi. The incident, which occurred at the Civic Centre, Idi Ape, saw a significant number of youths and party faithful express their disapproval.

The disruption began when organizers directed Fijabi to a seat reserved for party leaders. This move immediately triggered a strong negative reaction from some attendees, who began booing loudly and voicing their opposition to his presence.

A widely circulated video captured the former lawmaker departing the hall under a barrage of jeers and chants from the assembled APC youths. The public display of discontent signaled a deep-seated frustration among party members.

This public rebuke is believed to stem from Fijabi’s recent public commendations of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, a prominent figure within the opposing Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Fijabi had spoken at an event on December 15, praising Makinde’s leadership.

During the unveiling of the Oyo @50 anniversary logo, Fijabi described Governor Makinde as “visionary” and openly admired his leadership style. He stated, “We are not abusing you; we are only criticising you. And I believe that the more you are criticised, the more you do the right thing.”

Fijabi’s remarks continued, “We can all see the political climate in Nigeria today, and we are firmly behind you. Keep going—we will continue to support you… With the new Omituntun that you are leading, there is no reason why we cannot join you and allow you to keep leading us forward.” These statements reportedly ignited anger within the APC ranks.

Party elders intervened to escort Fijabi from the summit, attempting to de-escalate the situation and prevent a further breakdown of order. The incident highlighted internal divisions and disapproval of perceived disloyalty within the Oyo APC.

Saheed Fijabi previously served two consecutive terms in the House of Representatives, representing the Ibadan North West/South West federal constituency. In October, Governor Makinde appointed him as the chairman of the Oyo State at 50 Anniversary Committee, a move that seemed to have further complicated his standing within his own party.

Read Original

Keywords: APC Oyo Youth Summit, Saheed Fijabi booed, Ibadan political tension, Oyo APC internal conflict, former lawmaker criticizes party, Governor Makinde praise, PDP APC rivalry, Oyo State politics