The APC secretary rules out handpicking candidates for state Assembly and National Assembly elections due to financial constraints.

Dr Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, has cautioned the party against imposing candidates, instead advocating for open contests to allow popular candidates to emerge for State and National Assembly elections.

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The APC, according to him, must provide a level playing field for all members to test their popularity before the polls, as the party prioritizes winning elections by allowing the most popular persons to emerge as candidates.

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Basiru emphasized the importance of creating a level playing ground for free and fair contests at the primary level, ensuring that winners and losers are determined by their popularity and acceptability among party members.

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Speaking on behalf of the Alubarika Movement, Basiru disclosed that the group would mobilize and work tirelessly to support the emergence of the party's governorship candidate, Mr Bola Oyebamiji, in the August 15 poll in the State.

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As a member of the APC, the Alubarika Movement is committed to working for the party's success, with Basiru stating that he is close to Oyebamiji and is working closely with him to support the party's victory in the August 15, 2026 election.

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Basiru's remarks were made while speaking at a lecture organized by the Alubarika Movement in Osogbo on Tuesday, where he reiterated the need for the party to prioritize winning elections by allowing popular candidates to emerge.