Leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State have endorsed Senator Sharafadeen Alli as the party’s consensus candidate for the 2027 governorship election, in a move aimed at fostering unity ahead of the poll.
The decision was reached on Friday during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held in Ibadan, the state capital, attended by prominent party chieftains and political figures.
Among those present were former senator Ayo Adeseun, former Oyo APC chairman Akin Oke, Director of the South West Development Commission, Fatai Ibikunle, and former Secretary to the State Government, Akin Olajide.
Speaking after the meeting, Adeseun said the endorsement followed extensive consultations within and outside the state, including engagements with President Bola Tinubu.
He disclosed that the President, as the national leader of the party, had expressed support for Alli’s emergence, urging party faithful to respect the decision in the interest of cohesion.
“Mr President remains the leader of our party, and his opinion on who flies the party’s flag must be given due consideration,” Adeseun said.
Corroborating the position, Ibikunle said he also held discussions with Tinubu on the matter, adding that the President endorsed Alli’s candidacy.
He appealed to other aspirants within the party to align with the consensus arrangement, warning that disunity could jeopardise the APC’s chances in the 2027 election.
Responding, Alli expressed appreciation to party leaders for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to run an inclusive administration if elected governor.
“I am deeply honoured by this endorsement. I assure you that I will carry everyone along and prioritise the development of Oyo State,” he said.
However, the endorsement may stir fresh political contest within the party, as the immediate past Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is also eyeing the APC governorship ticket.
Adelabu recently resigned his ministerial position to concentrate on his ambition, setting the stage for a potential internal contest despite the consensus arrangement.
Political observers say the coming months will test the party’s ability to manage competing interests as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
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