The political atmosphere within the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State is gathering momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship race, as key stakeholders and party leaders have reportedly thrown their weight behind Senator Sharafa Alli amid indications that former Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, popularly known as “Penkelemesi,” is preparing to contest the party’s governorship primary.
The endorsement of Senator Sharafa Alli by influential figures within the party is believed to be part of ongoing consultations aimed at strengthening the APC ahead of the next electoral cycle in the state. Party loyalists who spoke at recent meetings described Alli as a loyal party man with grassroots support and legislative experience capable of repositioning the APC for victory.
Meanwhile, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, who flew the APC governorship flag in the 2023 election, is also said to be intensifying political consultations across major zones of the state as preparations for the party’s primary gather pace.
Political observers note that the development may set the stage for an intense but strategic contest within the opposition party, as aspirants continue to mobilize supporters and consolidate structures ahead of the official commencement of political activities.
Supporters of Adelabu maintain that his experience in governance, national politics and public administration places him in a strong position to lead the party into the next election, while proponents of Senator Sharafa Alli insist that his long-standing relationship with party stakeholders and his political influence across the state make him a formidable contender.
As consultations continue among party elders and stakeholders, many party members have called for unity and peaceful conduct among aspirants to avoid internal divisions capable of weakening the APC’s chances in the state.
The unfolding political alignment is expected to shape the future direction of the APC in Oyo State as the countdown to the governorship primary gradually begins. As the event unfolding, the voice of Teslim Folarin is still silent.
Ayofe Abdullah