The political landscape in Oyo State is beginning to take shape ahead of the 2027 general elections, as leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state have endorsed Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli, representing Oyo South, as the party’s consensus governorship candidate.
The decision was reached on Friday during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held in the Samonda area of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Adeseun disclosed that the gathering was convened specifically to affirm Alli’s emergence as the consensus candidate, following what he described as extensive consultations within and outside the state.
He revealed that the decision was also influenced by engagements with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as the leader of the party.
“Mr President remains the leader of our party, and his opinion on who flies the party’s flag must be given due consideration,” Adeseun stated, noting that the President had expressed support for Alli’s candidacy.
Corroborating this, Ibikunle said he also held discussions with the President on the matter and confirmed that Senator Alli enjoys his backing. He urged other aspirants within the party to align with the decision in the interest of unity ahead of the 2027 polls.
In his response, Senator Alli appreciated the party leaders for the endorsement, pledging to run an inclusive and people-oriented administration if elected as governor.
The meeting drew prominent figures within the party, including former Senator Ayo Adeseun, Director of the South West Development Commission, Fatai Ibikunle, former Oyo APC Chairman, Akin Oke, and former Secretary to the State Government, Akin Olajide.
However, developments within the APC suggest that the race may not be entirely settled. An aide to the immediate past Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has reportedly purchased the party’s governorship nomination form valued at ₦50 million, signaling continued interest from other camps.
Similarly, Engineer Alao Oyedele has declared his intention to contest the governorship under the APC and has also obtained the nomination form.
Political observers are also watching closely for the position of former Senate Leader, Senator Teslim Folarin, whose stance—whether to endorse a candidate or join the race—remains unclear.
As the 2027 election cycle gradually unfolds, attention is expected to intensify within the APC as stakeholders navigate internal alignments and power dynamics.
