Oyo APC Yet to Choose 2027 Gubernatorial Candidate, Adelabu Clarifies
Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu has firmly dismissed ongoing speculations that the All Progressives Congress (APC) has already adopted a consensus gubernatorial candidate for Oyo State ahead of the 2027 elections. Adelabu, who is also a governorship aspirant in the state, emphasized that no such decision has been made by the party, countering reports that suggested early candidate selections in Oyo, Lagos, and Ogun states as part of preparatory measures for the next general elections.
Adelabu's Position on Candidate Selection
Speaking through his Special Adviser on Strategic Communication and Media Relations, Bolaji Tunji, Adelabu addressed the rumors head-on. Tunji stated, "At a time like this, especially when the contest is drawing closer, there will be speculation. That is normal in politics. My principal has not withdrawn from the race. People will always try to push narratives to gain relevance or create confusion." He further highlighted that the APC operates within a structured system guided by due process and hierarchy, ensuring that any eventual decision will follow established procedures and party protocols.
Internal Party Dynamics and Emerging Figures
Despite Adelabu's assertions, multiple party sources have indicated that Senator Sharafadeen Alli is emerging as a leading figure in ongoing consultations within the Oyo APC. Insiders note that Alli's perceived acceptability across various factions has positioned him at the center of political calculations in the state. His experience as a former Secretary to the State Government and his current role as a senator are said to have bolstered his profile among key stakeholders, making him a potential unifying candidate.
This development is reportedly linked to a high-level meeting held in Lagos, involving President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and other South-West APC leaders. Discussions at this meeting are believed to have centered on consensus arrangements for key states, including Oyo. Within Oyo APC circles, Alli is widely viewed as a figure capable of bridging longstanding internal divisions, with one party source noting, "he appears to be the only aspirant acceptable to most factions," a factor considered crucial for improving the party's electoral prospects.
Other Aspirants and Negotiation Efforts
Other prominent aspirants, such as Teslim Folarin, Abdulfatai Buhari, and Adebayo Adelabu, remain influential within the party. Negotiations are ongoing to accommodate various interests and maintain party cohesion. One potential option being considered is the allocation of the Oyo South senatorial ticket to Remi Oseni, a grassroots politician with growing support, as part of efforts to balance zoning and power rotation ahead of 2031.
Additionally, discussions around a potential one-term arrangement for a consensus candidate are being explored to address zoning concerns and ensure equitable representation. This consensus approach is not limited to Oyo State; in Lagos, stakeholders are said to be favoring Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, while in Ogun State, Senator Olamilekan Adeola has reportedly emerged as a preferred option.
Electoral Timeline and Future Meetings
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the governorship elections for February 6, 2027, with party primaries expected to take place between April and May 2026. In response to these timelines, Oyo APC stakeholders are planning to meet in Abuja in the coming days to continue consultations and possibly outline modalities for candidate selection, ensuring a transparent and inclusive process.
