Adelabu Declares 2027 Oyo Governorship Ambition Not 'Do-Or-Die'

Bayo Adelabu, former Minister of Power and a governorship aspirant for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, has publicly declared his decision not to challenge the party's governorship primary in court. This announcement, made in Ibadan, emphasizes his commitment to peace, party stability, and the long-term future of the APC within Oyo State. Adelabu's decision follows extensive consultations with party leaders, loyalists, and supporters across all 33 Local Government Areas and 351 wards of the state.

The APC in Oyo State has been grappling with significant internal disagreements concerning the process that led to Senator Sharafadeen Alli being declared its candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial election. Several aspirants have voiced concerns, alleging that the primary process was imposed upon them. However, Adelabu, positioning himself as a loyal and dedicated member of the APC, has opted against pursuing an internal appeal or initiating legal proceedings at this juncture.

Adelabu clarified that his decision is not indicative of a lack of evidence, conviction, or confidence in his case, nor should it be misconstrued as an act of surrender or a sign that his gubernatorial aspiration is not serious. Instead, he stated that this choice was made to prevent further divisions within the party, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach. He stressed that escalating the matter through avenues that could deepen existing rifts and undermine the party's cohesion was not in the best interest of the APC.

Further, Adelabu highlighted that the APC national chairman, during a recent visit to Oyo State, acknowledged "errors, unfairness and injustice" linked to certain aspects of the governorship primary. While acknowledging the importance of such an admission, Adelabu firmly maintained that an apology or acknowledgement, though crucial, should not replace necessary corrective measures, especially when opportunities to address grievances still exist.

He underscored the dissatisfaction among many APC members who have invested considerable years, personal resources, time, and political capital into building the party. These members feel their votes and preferences were disregarded, noting that candidates were subsequently submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) without the public declaration of the results upon which these nominations were supposedly based. Adelabu noted that these concerns are not isolated to the governorship primary but also extend to nominations for senatorial, House of Representatives, and State House of Assembly positions.

Adelabu concluded by asserting that the absence of publicly declared and verifiable results has justifiably raised serious questions regarding the transparency, credibility, and integrity of the nomination process. He confirmed the availability of documentary materials, authenticated collation records, and video evidence to substantiate these concerns. He urged the APC national leadership to assume full responsibility for the reconciliation process, emphasizing that rebuilding confidence and unity within the party cannot be left solely to the aspirants involved.