No Individual is Bigger Than An Institution, Zach Adedeji Is Not Bigger Than APC

By: Emmanuel Oropo

As preparations for 2027 begin, the APC in Oyo State is facing one of its most serious internal crises. At the center of the storm is Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Nigerian Revenue Service, whose growing influence over party affairs is sparking intense debate.

Across the state, APC members are worried about power being concentrated in one person. Their concern goes beyond who gets tickets. It is about the gradual erosion of internal democracy and broad consultation in the party.

The key question being asked is simple: Can Zacch Adedeji become bigger than the APC? To many aggrieved members, the answer is a clear no. Political parties thrive on collective sacrifice, not the dominance of one individual.

Stakeholders allege that Adedeji has effectively determined all 52 APC elective candidates in Oyo State — from governor to House of Assembly. The alleged emergence of his younger brother as deputy governorship candidate has deepened the controversy.

Whether the allegations are true or not, the perception has fueled anger. Many members believe nominations are now driven by personal influence instead of consensus, consultation, and merit.

In many LGAs, the conversation is the same: is the APC becoming a structure controlled by one man? Long-time loyalists feel that years of sacrifice, funding, and grassroots work are being ignored for a narrow political circle.

Frustration is growing. Many loyalists feel alienated. Consultations have disappeared. Party structures built over years are being sidelined. The silence of aggrieved members is even more dangerous, because silent resentment often costs parties elections more than open opposition.

Party elders warn that influence must have limits. No individual, no matter his achievements, should overshadow the institution that gave him relevance. The APC existed before Adedeji and will exist after him. The party’s democracy must be protected above any individual interest.

History shows the risk. Parties that ignored complaints of imposition lost members to defection, saw campaigns weaken, and gave room for anti-party activities. Analysts fear Oyo APC is heading the same way unless urgent reconciliation happens.

The greatest danger may not be from opposition parties, but from dissatisfied members within. Political victories are built on unity. Once suspicion and exclusion replace unity, winning becomes difficult.

There are now calls for the APC national leadership to intervene. Stakeholders want broader consultations, transparent decisions, and assurance that loyalty and competence — not proximity to power — will determine advancement. Party sources also accuse the NRS boss of using President Tinubu’s name and money to pressure members.

The enduring lesson is clear: political influence is an asset, political domination is a liability. Strong parties are built on institutions, not personalities. As 2027 approaches, the APC must answer: Is Zacch Adedeji leading the APC in Oyo, or is the APC becoming Zacch Adedeji’s structure? No individual is bigger than the institution. If this is ignored, the agitation could have electoral consequences.