Bayo Adelabu, the immediate past Minister of Power, has dismissed rumors that President Bola Tinubu and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, have already picked a favorite for the 2027 Oyo State governorship race. Addressing a gathering of party faithful and supporters in Ibadan on Thursday, Adelabu clarified that the race remains wide open to all interested aspirants.
The former minister urged the public and party members to ignore any reports suggesting that a “consensus” candidate has been anointed behind closed doors. Adelabu emphasized that the President is focused on his national responsibilities and does not have a personal or special interest in handpicking a candidate for the state.
Adelabu explained that as the leader of the entire country, President Tinubu oversees all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Because of this broad mandate, it would be inconsistent for him to settle on a single individual this early in the process. Instead, the President has reportedly advised that the party leadership in Oyo State work toward internal harmony.
The strategy moving forward, as shared by Adelabu, is for stakeholders on the ground to attempt to reach a mutual agreement among themselves. However, he was quick to note that if a consensus cannot be reached, the party will proceed with a direct primary. This approach, he noted, ensures that the eventual candidate is chosen through a transparent and fair process that reflects the will of the party members.
By setting the record straight, Adelabu aimed to calm the growing speculation within the political circles of the state. As reported by Zoyols News, he maintained that the ultimate goal is to build a unified front through proper consultations rather than relying on unverified claims of endorsements.
