Adelabu meets Oyo APC executives, confident of victory
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Adebayo Adelabu, former Minister of Power and governorship aspirant, met with Oyo State APC executives to announce his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election.
- He expressed confidence in securing the party's ticket and winning the election, pledging to prioritize the party's interests and the development of Oyo State.
- Adelabu emphasized the need for due process in selecting a consensus candidate and stated his ambition is not self-centered, aiming to rescue the progressive fold of the party.
The immediate past Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, signaling a significant move within the All Progressives Congress (APC) landscape.
Donโt let them hijack our party. Iโm ready to follow due process. Someone cannot declare himself as the consensus candidate of the party over other aspirants.
Adelabu's engagement with the state executive council of the APC in Ibadan was a clear demonstration of his commitment to party processes and internal democracy. His assurance of victory and pledge to prioritize the party's interests if elected governor underscore his strategic approach to the upcoming political contest. His emphasis on wealth creation and inclusive development for all parts of the state aims to resonate with a broad spectrum of voters.
A consensus without the party executives, all aspirants, leaders, stakeholders from the Lamist group, SENACO, Folarin and the Adelabu camps involved is null and void. It canโt stand.
Crucially, Adelabu addressed the contentious issue of consensus candidates, cautioning against any imposition that bypasses the broader party structure. His assertion that a consensus without the involvement of all stakeholders, including various party factions, is 'null and void' highlights a potential internal power struggle within the Oyo APC. This stance positions him as a defender of due process against what he perceives as attempts to hijack the party machinery.
I want to assure you that I will contest, win and become the next governor of the state in 2027.
His claim of support from President Bola Tinubu, whom he regards as a father figure, adds significant weight to his ambition. This backing, if confirmed, could be a decisive factor in his quest for the party's ticket and subsequent electoral success. Adelabu's narrative is one of determined ambition, rooted in a belief in his capacity to lead and a commitment to the progressive ideals of the APC.
I hold the party in high esteem. We all have a responsibility to build this party together to get to our desired destination. I will always carry the party along in whatever I do if elected governor in 2027. I will prioritise the interest of the party.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.