Oyo 2027: Aspirant Prioritizes Party Unity Over Legal Challenge

Bayo Adelabu, a former Minister of Power and a governorship aspirant for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, has declared that his ambition to lead the state in 2027 is not a "do-or-die affair." He stated he would not resort to legal proceedings or internal party appeals concerning the recent APC governorship primary.

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This decision is not because of a lack of evidence, confidence or conviction. Neither should it be interpreted as an act of surrender or an indication that my aspiration to serve as Governor of Oyo State is a do-or-die affair.

Adelabu explained that this decision was made in the interest of the party's progress and stability, particularly ahead of the 2027 elections. The move follows a meeting with party leaders and representatives from across the state's local government areas and wards. His statement comes amidst disagreements among some Oyo APC governorship aspirants who have contested the nomination of Senator Sharafadeen Alli as the party's candidate, alleging he was imposed.

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Rather, I have chosen, in the interest of peace, party stability and the larger future of the APC in the state, not to further escalate the matter through avenues that may deepen existing divisions and undermine the cohesion of our great party.

"This decision is not because of a lack of evidence, confidence or conviction. Neither should it be interpreted as an act of surrender or an indication that my aspiration to serve as Governor of Oyo State is a do-or-die affair," Adelabu stated. He emphasized that he chose "in the interest of peace, party stability and the larger future of the APC in the state, not to further escalate the matter through avenues that may deepen existing divisions and undermine the cohesion of our great party."

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More importantly, our respected National Chairman, during his recent visit to Oyo, openly acknowledged that there were errors, unfairness and injustice associated with aspects of the primary election process.

Adelabu noted that the APC National Chairman had acknowledged "errors, unfairness and injustice" in the primary process during a recent visit to Oyo. However, he believes that "an acknowledgement or apology, though important, cannot and should not substitute for the necessary correction where the opportunity to address the grievances still exists." He expressed concern that many loyal party members feel their sacrifices have been disregarded, with candidates emerging who may not reflect the popular choices of party members, especially without transparent results.

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We believe that an acknowledgement or apology, though important, cannot and should not substitute for the necessary correction where the opportunity to address the grievances still exists.