Former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, a former APC gubernatorial candidate, announced his intention to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship election on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform. In a statement provided to Media Talk Africa on Saturday, Adelabu asserted that the APC will unseat the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.
Adelabu, who served as Minister of Power under the Buhari administration, said his decision to run again is driven by a desire to improve Oyo State’s development trajectory. He confirmed that a formal declaration of his candidacy will take place on Tuesday in Ibadan, the state capital. The event, he noted, will signal the start of a renewed political campaign aimed at restoring what he describes as “progressive leadership” under the APC.
The former minister emphasized the party’s prospects for 2027, stating, “APC will reclaim power in the state through unity, commitment and the support of party faithful and residents.” He framed the upcoming election as an opportunity to shift the state’s political direction after two terms of PDP governance.
The PDP’s incumbent, Governor Seyi Makinde, was first elected in 2019 and won re‑election in 2023. Makinde is expected to complete his second term in 2027, after which the governorship will be open to new contenders. Adelabu was the APC’s gubernatorial candidate in the 2019 election, where he was defeated by Makinde.
Political analysts note that Oyo State is a key battleground in Nigeria’s southwestern region, where both major parties have substantial support bases. The APC’s performance in recent local and state elections has been mixed, and the party is reportedly focusing on internal cohesion ahead of the 2027 polls. Adelabu’s re‑entry into the race could influence intra‑party dynamics, particularly as the APC seeks to position a unified front against the PDP.
The upcoming declaration in Ibadan will likely attract supporters, party officials and media representatives, providing a platform for Adelabu to outline his policy priorities and campaign strategy. While specific details of his manifesto remain forthcoming, he has indicated a focus on infrastructure, education, and economic development.
Adelabu’s statement adds momentum to the pre‑election landscape in Oyo State, underscoring the competitive nature of the 2027 gubernatorial contest. The next phases will involve party primaries, candidate screenings and the formulation of campaign agendas, all of which will shape the political contestation between the APC and PDP as the election draws nearer.
