By John Dike, Osogbo
The Pelumi Olajengbesi Campaign Organization (POCO) has urged aggrieved members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency of Osun State to shun violence and consider joining the Accord Party amid allegations of imposition in the selection of legislative candidates.
The organization, in a statement dated October 12, 2026, expressed concern over growing anger among APC members following what it described as the hijack of House of Representatives and State House of Assembly tickets by defectors led by Hon. Wole Oke.
POCO said it understood the frustration of longstanding APC members who had nurtured political ambitions under the party for years but allegedly lost the opportunity to contest following the entry of new members
It particularly sympathized with APC aspirants in Oriade, alleging that their legislative ambitions had been frustrated by an unfair political arrangement.
The organization accused Oke of holding the constituency to ransom for 20 years and alleged that he was now exerting similar influence over the APC, a party he reportedly joined barely a year ago.
POCO also claimed that Oke lost all polling units in Ipetu-Ijesa, citing the alleged result as part of its criticism of his political influence in the area.
Amid the alleged discontent, the organization appealed to aggrieved APC members, leaders and supporters to remain calm and refrain from violence or mob action.
It emphasized that the safety and security of residents across Ijesa North should remain paramount, urging political stakeholders to pursue their grievances through peaceful and democratic means.
“Our goal is simple: to rescue, restore, and reset Ijesa North through democratic principles,” the statement said.
POCO also called on dissatisfied APC members to join the Accord Party, presenting the platform as an alternative for those seeking changes in political representation and party leadership.
The organization alleged that some party members were frustrated by political imposition, poor representation and practices it claimed involved taking individuals to shrines to swear oaths in exchange for ₦20,000.
Describing the Accord Party as an open platform for people seeking a new political direction for Ijesa North, POCO declared: “The Accord train is open.”
It added that the political contest in the constituency should not be viewed solely as a battle between the APC and Accord, but as an issue concerning the collective aspirations of the people.
According to the organization, its campaign welcomes members of the APC, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Accord, Labour Party and other residents who share its vision for progress.
POCO assured prospective defectors of a warm reception, calling for unity among those seeking a change in the political leadership of Ijesa North.
