adsKayode Fayemi,Former governor of Ekiti State and founding member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has warned that the party is drifting away from the ideals that inspired its formation, saying the growing culture of consensus politics and the absence of internal debate are pushing the APC toward a political implosion.
Speaking during an interview on State Affairs with Edmund Obilo, Fayemi said the APC has gradually abandoned the progressive ideology and intellectual engagement that once distinguished it from rival political parties. According to him, the increasing reliance on consensus arrangements during party primaries across states has weakened internal democracy and alienated many loyal members.
The former minister of mines and steel development argued that political parties thrive when members are allowed to freely contest ideas and leadership positions, rather than being compelled to accept predetermined candidates. He described the widespread use of consensus candidates in APC primaries as undemocratic, warning that the practice could eventually deepen divisions within the ruling party.
Fayemi noted that while consensus can sometimes help reduce conflict, it should not become a substitute for transparent and competitive elections. He said many party stakeholders now feel sidelined because decisions are increasingly being made by a few influential figures without broad consultation.
