Relegated Players Can’t Win Elections’ — Olopoeyan Fires at Oyo APC

The leader of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) in Oyo State, Alhaji Adebisi Olopoeyan, has dismissed reports suggesting that the defection of some politicians to the All Progressives Congress (APC) would strengthen the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during a telephone conversation with our correspondent from London, where he is currently on vacation, Olopoeyan said he doesn’t have much to say about the defection but insists that the Oyo APC is celebrating the arrival of politicians who no longer command significant political influence, insisting that such defections would not alter the political landscape in the state.

According to him, APM remains home to committed leaders and loyal members who are focused on delivering effective governance and consolidating their grassroots support.

He argued that only politicians who have lost their relevance in the political space would consider leaving the ruling political structure in Oyo State, maintaining that the APC’s
Excitement over reported defections reflected desperation rather than political strength.

“I don’t have much to say about the rumours for now, but I am following developments closely. The situation reminds me of a football club that aspires to play in the UEFA Champions League but is instead signing players from the third division,” Olopoeyan said.

“A serious football club seeking to compete at the highest level signs quality and high-profile players. What the Oyo APC is doing is celebrating the signing of players who have already lost their value. Rather than strengthening the team, they are merely rejoicing over recruiting relegated players.”

Olopoeyan further maintained that the internal crisis within the Oyo APC remains unresolved, adding that the party’s leadership challenges would continue to undermine its chances in the 2027 elections regardless of the politicians it attracts.

He expressed confidence that the APM, alongside its political allies, would remain focused on grassroots mobilisation and delivering a convincing victory at the polls in 2027.