The immediate past Minister of Power and governorship aspirant on the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo state, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, Tuesday said the party could not afford to remain in the opposition in the state beyond the 2027 general elections.
Chief Adelabu stated this while formally declaring his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election at a meeting with the APC executives held at the party’s state secretariat, Oke-Ado, Ibadan.
The APC governorship aspirant noted that his ambition to govern the state was driven by a broader mission to “restore the soul of the progressives” rather than personal interest.
He emphasised that the 2027 election represents a critical turning point for the APC in the state as the outcome of the 2027 elections will either make or mar the APC in Oyo state.
“The outcome of the 2027 elections will either make or mar the APC in Oyo State. It will determine whether the progressives remain relevant or not,” he said.
Stressing that his gubernatorial aspiration goes beyond occupying the Agodi Government House, Chief Adelabu said it’s a collective effort to reposition and strengthen the party.
Chief Adelabu warned against attempts by any aspirant to impose themselves as a consensus candidate without due consultation.
“Someone cannot declare himself as the consensus candidate of the party over other aspirants.
“A consensus without the involvement of party executives, aspirants, leaders, and stakeholders across all groups cannot stand,” he said.
The state APC chairman, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, in his remarks, lauded Chief Adelabu for his loyalty and dedication to the party, noting that his commitment remained significant.