The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has criticised the recent political rally organised by the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, amid continuing debate over the rehabilitation of the facility.
The opposition party described the event as inappropriate, questioning the decision to use the stadium for political activities while concerns remain over the state of the facility and the cost of its renovation.
In a statement issued in Ibadan on Monday, the Oyo APC Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, accused the Seyi Makinde-led administration of failing to address concerns raised by residents regarding the stadium project.
APC Raises Concerns Over Stadium Rehabilitation
The party alleged that supporters of the ruling political structure mobilised from across the 33 local government areas of the state for the rally.
APC also claimed that some residents, including traders and commercial operators, were pressured to attend the event.
The allegations have not been independently verified.
The party questioned the reported ₦5.5 billion cost associated with the rehabilitation of the stadium, arguing that the facility’s condition remained a subject of public debate.
CAF Inspection Issue Cited by Opposition Party
The APC referenced concerns surrounding the stadium’s suitability for international football matches, following reports that the facility was not approved by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for certain competitions.
The party linked the issue to the relocation of matches involving Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) from Ibadan to another venue.
According to the APC, playing away from their traditional home ground affected the club’s competitive advantage.
However, the circumstances surrounding venue selection and sporting outcomes involve multiple factors beyond stadium location.
Political Dispute Intensifies Ahead of 2027 Elections
The criticism comes as political activities increase ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The APC accused the state government of failing to provide sufficient accountability regarding the stadium project, while calling for greater transparency in public spending.
The party said residents deserved explanations concerning major government projects and their outcomes.
Government Position
As of the time of this report, the Oyo State Government and officials of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) had not issued a detailed response to the APC’s allegations.
