2027: Adelabu Declares Bid For Oyo Governorship, Pledges To Unite APC

Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, has formally declared his ambition to contest the governorship of Oyo State in 2027, vowing there will be no imposition of candidates within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Naija News reports that Adelabu made this known on Friday during separate consultations with party leaders and loyalists in Ogbomoso and Oyo towns.

Speaking at the residence of APC stalwart Ayoade Adeseun in Ogbomoso, Adelabu said he was embarking on early outreach to consolidate support for his bid.

The former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria stressed that he is determined to secure the party’s ticket through a transparent contest, rather than by force.

“I’m ready for the challenge. I want to prove that I can withstand competition and emerge victorious,” Adelabu stated.

He called on disgruntled members to embrace unity to ensure the APC regains control of Oyo State in the next polls.

“I’m here to declare my intention to run for governor in 2027. I want to deploy all the lessons I’ve learnt from the past two elections,” he added.

Highlighting Ogbomoso’s strategic role in Oyo politics, Adelabu praised the reconciliation efforts that have brought together previously divided APC factions in the area.

“Ogbomoso is very significant in Oyo’s political landscape. I’m glad all the factions here are now united,” he said.

He also rallied support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election, describing it as vital for the South-West.

“This is the turn of the Yorubas to complete two presidential terms. Nigeria will gain immensely if Tinubu is re-elected,” Adelabu told supporters.

At another meeting in Oyo town, Adelabu promised an inclusive administration if elected, assuring stakeholders that no one would be left out.

“Oyo is like a second home to me. My supporters and associates are all here. They’ve stood by me before and are ready to do so again,” he said.

He also dismissed fears of imposition in the party, saying, “I want to show our members that I can win through fair competition. Oyo deserves better because it is historic, symbolic, and a blessing to this state.”

In their remarks, Senator Ayoade Adeseun and Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, son of the late former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, stressed the importance of party unity to reclaim power in 2027.