Senator Alli Sharafadeen of the All Progressives Congress (APC), representing Oyo South Senatorial District, on Friday, April 17, formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.
The declaration event, held at the Division Police Station Training Ground in Yemetu, Ibadan, is part of preparations ahead of the party’s primary election.
Sharafadeen Ali, recently installed as the Oba Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland, currently serves as a senator. He previously served as the first Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government in 1991, and later as Secretary to the Oyo State Government as well as Chief of Staff to former governor Rasheed Ladoja between 2003 and 2007.
Dignitaries present at the event included Senator Yunus Akintunde, Senator Hamzat Ayoade Adeseun, Honourable Akin Alabi, Honourable Lasun Adebunmi, Asiwaju Yemi Aderigbegbe, Barrister Bunmi Akinbuade, and former Deputy Governor Iyiola Oladokun. Popular Fuji musician Saheed Osupa was also in attendance.
While making his declaration, Sharafadeen Ali stated that his ambition was driven by a desire to serve the people of Oyo State, describing the moment as a significant shift in the state’s political future.
“Today is a turning point, and declaration of purpose, a new dawn is here in Oyo State” the aspirant stated.
He added that his decision followed wide consultations with party stakeholders, traditional rulers, and citizens across all political zones of the state.
“After Consulting widely with our leaders and stakeholders, traditional rulers and citizens across every zone of our beloveth State, I stand before you today to declare boldly, clearly and without hesitation my intention to contest for the office of the governor of Oyo State ” he declared.
Sharafadeen Ali emphasized that the office of governor is about responsibility, service, and shaping the future of the people.
“It is about responsibility, it is about service, it about the future and prosperity of the good people of Oyo State” he said.
He further promised infrastructural development across key sectors, economic empowerment for artisans, youths, and entrepreneurs, and the creation of an enabling business environment. He also pledged to advocate for the return of local government autonomy.
He concluded by calling for unity and collective effort, noting that achieving his vision would require the support and cooperation of the people of the state.
