Convener of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ideological Group (BAT-IG), Honourable Bamidele Atoyebi, has advocated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) immediately begin reconciliation of aggrieved party members ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that internal divisions could threaten the party’s chances of sweeping the polls.

Atoyebi also cautioned Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, against pursuing a presidential ambition in 2027, describing such a move as premature and capable of dividing the Southwest voting bloc.

According to him, there are growing political moves aimed at using Makinde and former President Goodluck Jonathan as “political spoilers” to weaken President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s support base in the South.

Atoyebi said Makinde lacked the political muscle to mount a successful presidential challenge and argued that any attempt to contest would only reduce Tinubu’s votes in the Southwest.

He also criticised Makinde’s administration in Oyo State, alleging that residents were dissatisfied with issues ranging from deteriorating infrastructure to the handling of ancestral farmlands and traditional institutions.

The BAT-IG convener observed that roads in parts of Ibadan had been neglected and accused the governor of sidelining local contractors in the award of major projects.

He further alleged that Makinde had distanced himself from political allies and grassroots supporters who contributed to his rise to power.

Atoyebi maintained that the Oyo governor should wait for a future power rotation to the South, noting that age remained on his side.

On former President Jonathan, Atoyebi said the ex-president had repeatedly stated that he was no longer interested in contesting elections and should not allow himself to be dragged into what he described as opposition political calculations.

He argued that Jonathan enjoys a cordial relationship with President Tinubu and already has access to the presidency without returning to active politics.

Speaking on the internal situation within the APC, Atoyebi said many loyal party members remained unhappy over events surrounding the party primaries and the distribution of political appointments after the elections.

According to him, several committed party loyalists feel abandoned, while some appointees have become inaccessible and arrogant despite allegedly contributing little to the party’s electoral victories.

He called on the APC leadership to urgently begin reconciliation efforts across wards, local governments and states, stressing that the party could not afford to enter the 2027 elections divided.

Atoyebi said the proposed BAT-Home-Cell initiative should be used to reconnect alienated members and promote inclusiveness within the ruling party.

“As BAT-IG, our slogan is ‘true progress is about lifting one another up,’” he stated, adding that the APC must treat reconciliation as a top priority if it hopes to secure a landslide victory in 2027.