Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, has formally declared his intention to contest the governorship seat of Oyo State in the 2027 general elections. He made this known during a series of consultative meetings with leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogbomoso and Oyo zones on Friday.
Speaking in Ogbomoso at the residence of party chieftain Ayoade Adeseun, Adelabu explained that his visits across the state’s geopolitical zones are part of broader consultations aimed at realizing his 2027 ambition. He reassured party stakeholders that the APC would not impose any candidate, emphasizing his readiness to compete fairly.
“I am prepared for the task ahead. I want to prove that I can face stiff competition, survive it, and emerge victorious,” he said.
While seeking the support of party faithful, Adelabu appealed to aggrieved members for forgiveness, urging them to focus on how the APC can reclaim power in the state.
“I’m here to formally declare my intention to run for governor in 2027. I will put to use all the lessons and experience from my past two electoral contests,” he stated. “I am not opposed to any zone producing the next governor. What matters most is God’s timing.”
Adelabu highlighted the strategic importance of Ogbomoso in determining electoral outcomes and expressed delight at the unity among the various party factions in the zone.
The minister also used the opportunity to call on residents to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election, stating that continued Yoruba leadership at the national level would bring more dividends of democracy. “It is the Yoruba’s turn to complete two terms in the presidency. Nigeria stands to benefit more with Tinubu’s re-election,” he added.
In Oyo town, Adelabu reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance. He pledged to ensure all groups are carried along if elected governor, stating, “No one will be left out under my administration.”
“Oyo is like a second home to me. My supporters and political allies here have always stood by me, and I am confident of their continued support. The Oyo zone deserves better representation—it holds historical and symbolic significance for the entire state,” Adelabu said.
APC leaders at the meeting, including Ayoade Adeseun and Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, son of the late former governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, called for unity within the party to secure victory in the 2027 elections.
