ADELABU, SENATOR SHARAFADEEN ALLI PICK APC FORMS AS OYO GOVERNORSHIP RACE HEATS UP AHEAD OF 2027

ADELABU, SENATOR SHARAFADEEN ALLI PICK APC FORMS AS OYO GOVERNORSHIP RACE HEATS UP AHEAD OF 2027 The political race for the 2027 Oyo State governorship has intensified as Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu and Senator Sharafadeen Alli officially obtained the All Progressives Congress (APC) expression of interest and nomination forms, signalling a deepening intra-party contest and early alignment ahead of the polls. The development has further sharpened divisions within the party as key figures position themselves for what is expected to be a highly competitive primary election. Former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is among the prominent aspirants who have now formally entered the race on the APC platform. Party sources confirmed that Adelabu picked up his nomination forms at the APC national secretariat in Abuja, reinforcing his determination to contest the governorship seat after previously signalling interest in the position. His supporters say his entry brings experience from both the financial and energy sectors, as well as national political exposure, into the contest for Oyo’s top job. Also in the race is Senator Sharafadeen Alli, representing Oyo South Senatorial District, who has emerged as one of the most visible aspirants in the APC governorship tussle. Alli obtained his nomination forms alongside several National Assembly members from Oyo State, a move widely interpreted as a show of strong internal backing and early consolidation of support. The senator has consistently maintained that his ambition is driven by the need to provide developmental leadership and inclusive governance, following consultations across the state. The simultaneous emergence of Adelabu and Alli in the governorship race reflects growing competition within the APC in Oyo State, where multiple political blocs are actively lobbying for influence ahead of the party’s primaries. Party insiders say consultations are ongoing among stakeholders, with endorsements and alignments already shaping early narratives around potential frontrunners. Some analysts believe the race may evolve into a contest between technocratic credentials and grassroots political structures, as both camps intensify mobilisation. Despite the rivalry, APC leaders have continued to emphasise unity and adherence to internal democratic processes. However, political observers warn that early positioning and competing endorsements could heighten tensions if not carefully managed ahead of the primaries. The party is expected to adopt a formal timetable for screening and delegate engagement as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.

With both Adelabu and Alli now officially in the race, Oyo APC is entering a crucial phase of political negotiations and alignment.

The outcome of the contest is expected to significantly influence the party’s strength in the state as the 2027 general elections approach, with stakeholders closely watching how unity or division unfolds within its ranks.