Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, has officially declared his intention to contest for the governorship of Oyo State in 2027, pledging to run an inclusive administration if elected.
Adelabu made this declaration during separate consultative meetings with All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders from Ogbomoso and Oyo zones on Friday, as part of ongoing efforts to galvanize support across the state.
Speaking at the residence of party chieftain Ayoade Adeseun in Ogbomoso, Adelabu explained that his visits were part of a broader consultation process toward actualizing his gubernatorial ambition.
“I’m here to tell you that I want to contest for governor of Oyo State in 2027,” he told party members.
“I’m ready to put to test all the experience I’ve gathered from the past two elections.”
Addressing concerns about potential imposition of candidates, Adelabu gave assurances that the APC would provide a level playing field for all aspirants.
“I’m up to the task. I want to show them that I can withstand and survive competition and come out victorious,” he said.
The minister also used the opportunity to plead for reconciliation within the party, calling on aggrieved members to put aside their differences for the sake of the party’s return to power.
“We should be more concerned about how the party will come back to power in 2027,” he said.
He highlighted the strategic importance of Ogbomoso in state politics and expressed joy over the apparent unity among various factions in the zone.
“Ogbomoso is very important in this state election. I’m happy to see that all the factions in Ogbomoso are now one,” he said.
In Oyo town, Adelabu reiterated his commitment to inclusivity in governance, promising equal representation for all zones if elected.
“I will run an all-inclusive government where everybody will be involved in the governance of the state and no one will be left behind,” he said.
“I’m here for people to know that no one can impose anybody. I want to work and prove to our party members that I’m up to the task.”
He described Oyo zone as symbolic and deserving of better political attention.
“Oyo is like a second home to me. My supporters, followers, associates and allies are all here. They have supported me in the past, and they’re ready to support me again,” he noted.
“Oyo deserves better treatment because it is symbolic. Oyo is historical, symbolic, and a blessing to the entire state.”
Adelabu also used the platform to call for support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging the people of Oyo State to back his re-election bid.
“This is another turn of the Yorubas to serve two terms as President of Nigeria. Nigeria has a lot to benefit if Tinubu is re-elected,” he stated.
Also speaking at the event, Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, son of former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, urged APC members to unite and work toward the party’s victory in the 2027 general elections.
