Oyo APC Leaders Endorse Alli; Adelabu Group Kicks

A significant development within the Oyo State All Progressives Congress (APC) has seen a faction of party leaders endorse former Secretary to the State Government, Sharafadeen Alli, as the preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election. This endorsement, stemming from a leadership summit in Ibadan, signals a strategic move to consolidate internal cohesion ahead of the crucial electoral cycle.

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Mr President remains the leader of our party, and his opinion on who flies the party’s flag must be given due consideration.

However, this move has not been without its dissent. Supporters of the immediate past Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, have swiftly rejected the endorsement, branding it as unauthorized and a potential threat to party unity. Led by APC stalwart Tade Akinjobi, they argue that any endorsement not sanctioned by the official party structure is invalid and could undermine the electoral process.

Those backing Alli point to a broader consensus-building strategy, reportedly adopted in neighboring Lagos and Ogun states, as a model for internal harmony. Senator Ayo Adeseun, a key figure at the summit, stated that the decision was bolstered by consultations with President Bola Tinubu, who, he claims, supports Alli's candidacy. This assertion, if accurate, carries considerable weight within the party hierarchy.

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any endorsement not approved by the party’s official structure was “null and void” and of no consequence to the party’s electoral process.

This internal dynamic underscores the complex political landscape in Oyo State. While the push for consensus aims to present a united front, the strong reactions from opposing factions highlight the challenges of navigating aspirant ambitions and maintaining party discipline. The coming months will be critical in determining whether this endorsement can truly foster unity or exacerbate existing divisions within the Oyo APC.

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The state party structure was broader than any single group, stressing that several blocs, including legacy political structures and stakeholders across zones, must be carried along to avoid internal conflict.