Leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State have declared that their adoption of Senator Sharafadeen Alli as the party's consensus governorship candidate was in line with the position of President Bola Tinubu. The stakeholders made the claim on Wednesday during a meeting held at the Prof. Theophilus Ogunlesi Hall, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, where they reaffirmed Alli's emergence as the party's preferred standard-bearer ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Consensus-Building Tradition
Speaking on behalf of the leaders, Pa Alarape Jolaoso said the decision to adopt Alli followed the party's tradition of consensus-building and collective decision-making among its elders and stakeholders. Jolaoso maintained that the process reflected internal party consultations, adding that the stakeholders acted within the framework of progressive politics which prioritises unity and strategic alignment. According to him, the adoption was strengthened by what he described as a clear endorsement from the President, insisting that the decision was consistent with the broader direction of the national leadership of the APC.
Vindication of Party Leadership
Also speaking, Senator Ayoade Adeseun said the unfolding developments had vindicated earlier claims made by party leaders regarding the direction of the party's leadership in the state. Adeseun expressed confidence that Senator Alli would secure a comfortable victory should a direct primary election be conducted, urging members to remain united and focused ahead of the polls. He called for reconciliation among party members, stressing that unity remained essential for the APC to achieve success in the 2027 general elections in Oyo State.
Loyalty to Leadership Structure
In his remarks, Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle said the decision reflected loyalty to the party's leadership structure, noting that the stakeholders had remained consistent in their position despite initial skepticism. He added that the state executive committee and key stakeholders had already been briefed on the consensus arrangement, describing Senator Alli as the party's unanimously agreed candidate. Other leaders at the meeting also described the development as a step towards strengthening party cohesion and improving the APC's chances in the forthcoming election.
Alli's Response and Pledge
In his response, Senator Sharafadeen Alli expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and other party leaders for the confidence reposed in him, promising to justify the trust placed in his candidature. Alli pledged to run an inclusive campaign and ensure that party members and residents of Oyo State benefit from democratic dividends if elected governor. The meeting had in attendance several party stalwarts, including members of the National Assembly, former local government chairmen, and other influential stakeholders across the state.
