The Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, has officially declared his intention to run for the governorship of Oyo State in the 2027 general elections.
Adelabu made this known on Friday during separate meetings with leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Ogbomoso and Oyo zones of the state. The consultations, he explained, are part of his efforts to engage with the party’s base across Oyo’s geopolitical zones in preparation for his ambition.
Speaking in Ogbomoso at the residence of APC chieftain Ayoade Adeseun, Adelabu reassured party members that no aspirant would be imposed ahead of the election.
“I am up to the task,” he said. “I want to demonstrate that I can handle competitive politics, survive it, and emerge victorious.”
He appealed to aggrieved party members to let go of past grievances and focus on uniting the APC for a successful return to power in 2027.
“I’m here to officially inform you of my desire to contest the Oyo governorship race in 2027,” Adelabu said. “I’m ready to apply the lessons and experiences from the last two elections. While I support fairness among the zones, I believe God’s timing is always the best.”
Describing Ogbomoso as a critical player in Oyo’s electoral dynamics, he commended the reconciliation among factions in the area and called for their support.
During his stop in Oyo town, Adelabu reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance if elected governor.
“I will ensure everyone is carried along in the affairs of the state—no one will be sidelined. I’m here to prove that nobody can be imposed on the party. I’m ready to work hard, prove my capability, and win the trust of our members.”
He added, “Oyo is like a second home to me. Many of my loyal supporters and allies are from here, and they have always stood by me. Oyo deserves better treatment—it is historic, symbolic, and significant to the entire state.”
Adelabu also used the opportunity to drum up support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election, arguing that Yorubas deserve to complete a two-term presidency.
“This is the Yoruba’s turn to lead, and Nigeria stands to gain more if President Tinubu is re-elected,” he said.
In their remarks, Ayoade Adeseun and Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, son of the late former governor, urged APC members to unite and work collectively toward reclaiming power in 2027.
