Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adelabu made this known on Friday during separate consultative meetings with party leaders and members in Ogbomoso and Oyo town. The visit, he explained, was part of his statewide engagement to mobilize support and foster unity within the APC ahead of the next general election.
Speaking in Ogbomoso, Adelabu affirmed his readiness to contest the party’s governorship ticket and welcomed internal competition, assuring stakeholders that no candidate would be imposed on the party.
“I am ready to contest. I am also ready to go through the internal processes of our party. No one will be forced on APC members,” he declared.
Addressing party faithful, Adelabu called on aggrieved members to forgive past grievances and prioritize the common goal of reclaiming power for the APC in 2027. He emphasized that the mistakes of past elections had taught him valuable lessons, and he believes the time is right to offer his leadership to the people of Oyo State.
The Minister described Ogbomoso as a key political bloc in the state and called for unity among various factions within the party. He also appealed for support from the Oyo zone, pledging to run an inclusive and people-centered government if elected.
Adelabu further urged party members and constituents in the region to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s anticipated second-term bid, stating that the Yoruba race now has another opportunity to complete a full presidential tenure.
“Oyo State has played a vital role in my political journey. If elected as governor, I will ensure fair treatment and inclusive governance for every zone,” he added.
In his entourage were notable APC leaders including Ayoade Adeseun and Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, who also addressed the gatherings and encouraged unity within the party. They urged members to close ranks and work collectively to ensure APC returns to power in Oyo State.
Adelabu, a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, previously contested the governorship position in 2019 and 2023. His latest declaration marks the beginning of what is expected to be a high-stakes race in Oyo’s political landscape.
