A former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, distancing himself from moves to impose a consensus candidate within the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adelabu made his position known on Tuesday during a meeting with the party’s state executive council at the APC secretariat at Oke-Ado, Ibadan, where he reaffirmed his commitment to securing the party’s ticket through a transparent process.
The declaration comes amid growing internal tensions within the party following the reported endorsement of Sharafadeen Alli by some APC leaders as a preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship race.
However, Adelabu’s camp has dismissed the endorsement as unofficial and potentially divisive.
Addressing party executives, Adelabu stressed that any attempt to impose a candidate without broad consultation would be unacceptable, warning against actions that could undermine party unity.
“Don’t let them hijack our party. I’m ready to follow due process. Someone cannot declare himself as the consensus candidate over other aspirants,” he said.
He argued that a legitimate consensus must involve all critical stakeholders, including party executives, aspirants, and leaders across different blocs within the APC.
According to him, any arrangement that excludes these groups lacks validity.
“A consensus without the party executives, aspirants, and stakeholders across various blocs is null and void. It cannot stand,” Adelabu added, expressing confidence in his chances of clinching the party’s ticket and winning the governorship election.
The former minister recently stepped down from his position in the federal cabinet, a move he said was necessary to fully pursue his political ambition.
In a resignation letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, noting that his exit would allow for a smooth transition.
“It has been a rare honour to contribute to national development under your leadership, particularly in advancing reforms in the power sector,” he stated.
At the meeting, Adelabu also outlined his vision for Oyo State, pledging to prioritise inclusive governance and economic empowerment if elected. He assured party members that no part of the state would be marginalised under his administration.
In his remarks, the Oyo State APC Chairman, Moses Adeyemo, commended Adelabu for his consultative approach, describing him as a loyal and committed party member capable of leading the party to electoral success.
Other party officials in attendance included Deputy Chairman Taofek Lamidi, Secretary Fatai Adenine, Women Leader Felicia Adekemi, Youth Leader Olalekan Glory, and Legal Adviser Sunday Aborisade.
Adelabu’s declaration is expected to intensify political activity within the APC in Oyo State as aspirants begin to position themselves ahead of the 2027 election.
