The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State has called for transparent, all-inclusive congresses, insisting that every interested party member should be allowed to contest without hindrance.

Prince Sunday Fagbemi, the state APC chairman, made the call on Friday during a meeting of the state executive committee with chairmen and secretaries from the 16 local government areas. The session reviewed the tenure of outgoing executives and prepared for the upcoming ward, local government, and state congresses.

Fagbemi commended party leaders at all levels for maintaining unity and progress despite occasional disagreements, stressing that differences in opinion should not undermine party cohesion.

“Politics is about interests, and it is normal to have varied interests,” he said. “Some of us might not return after the congresses, but we must part on good terms.”

With the tenure of the current executives nearing its end, he expressed gratitude to party members for their cooperation and the party’s success in recent state elections.

The APC chairman described the forthcoming congresses as a test of character and adherence to the party’s constitution, highlighting that leadership at all levels had consistently operated within party rules.

He reaffirmed the congress schedule, stating that ward congresses would hold on February 18, local government congresses on February 21, and the state congress on March 4, ahead of the national convention.

Fagbemi emphasised fairness and openness, saying, “Everyone who desires to contest should be allowed to do so. All relevant information must be made available to members without the formation of caucuses or exclusion of stakeholders.”

He also urged party leaders to carry all stakeholders along, noting that inclusiveness is vital for sustaining unity within the party. He particularly commended local government executives for their role as the backbone of the party, despite what he called “unwarranted criticisms.”

The APC chairman concluded by calling on leaders to intensify mobilisation across the state as the party’s membership e-registration exercise nears completion.