The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, Dr Gbemileke Alagbe, has unveiled Barrister Niyi Aborisade as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election. The formal presentation took place at an event in Bodija, Ibadan, where Alagbe declared the party united and ready to mount a competitive campaign.
“We are not just campaigning; we are in this race to win as a party,” Alagbe said. He urged aggrieved members and supporters outside the party to return and work together. “I want to assure every citizen and resident of Oyo State that ADC is one. ADC has come to stay,” he added.
Alagbe described Aborisade as a team player and builder who would strengthen both the campaign and a potential administration. “He is not a man with bitterness in his spirit. He is a team player and a team builder, and we strongly believe that he will add value to this campaign and, by God’s grace, to our government,” he said.
The candidate pledged that an ADC administration would be people-centred, prioritising development, justice, fairness and equity to improve the lives of residents across the state.
Accepting the nomination, Aborisade characterised the Alagbe-Aborisade ticket as a partnership grounded in competence, integrity and a commitment to change, rather than a conventional political alliance. “That is why the combination of our governorship and deputy governorship candidates is more than a political ticket,” he said. “It is a partnership built around competence, integrity and determination to bring newness, great achievements and positive change to Oyo State.”
Aborisade outlined priorities that include expanded opportunities for young people, support for farmers and Traders, stronger education and Healthcare systems, better infrastructure and an environment conducive to business. He framed the 2027 election as a referendum on the state’s direction. “Do we want politics as usual and business as usual, or do we want a new direction? Do we want leadership that serves itself or leadership that serves the people?” he asked. “Our answer is clear. We choose freedom. We choose progress. We choose accountability. We choose the new Oyo State.”
The unveiling signals the ADC’s early mobilisation for the governorship contest, positioning the party as a contender focused on governance reform and inclusive development in Oyo State.