Leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, threw their weight behind the governorship ambition of Adebayo Adelabu ahead of the 2027 election, describing him as the most suitable candidate to lead the party to victory.
According to a press statement signed by the Media team of Adebayo Adelabu, the endorsement was announced during a gathering of APC faithful from the seven geopolitical zones of the state held at Jogor Event Centre, Ibadan, before supporters later moved to the Liberty Stadium for Adelabu’s official declaration of intention to contest the governorship election.
The event attracted party leaders, youth and women groups, professionals, and grassroots mobilisers from different parts of the state. Among those present were Baba Muftau Adisa Gbayawu, Alhaji Wale Sanusi, Alhaji Abu Gbadamosi, a representative of Hosea Agboola, Chief Kunle Sanda, Alhaji Isiaka Alimi, Alhaji Adeleke Bello Oladeji, Chief Goke Oyetunji, Deacon Adedayo Adeola, Alhaji Jelili Oyinloye, and Hon. Lekan Adeyemo, among others.
Speakers at the meeting expressed confidence in Adelabu’s leadership qualities, political experience, and administrative capacity, insisting that he possesses the competence needed to reposition Oyo State and strengthen the APC ahead of the next governorship poll.
The stakeholders said the former deputy governor candidate enjoys broad acceptability across the state and has remained committed to the progress of the party and development of the state through his years of public service.
They also resolved to mobilise support across the grassroots to ensure the success of Adelabu’s governorship bid, while reaffirming their commitment to the unity and electoral success of the APC in Oyo State.
The atmosphere at the venue was marked by chants and open declarations of support from party members who pledged loyalty to Adelabu’s aspiration.
Speaking during the meeting, Adelabu described the unfolding political activities within the APC as “a battle for the soul of the progressives” in Oyo State.
He urged party faithful to work together in choosing a widely acceptable candidate for the governorship race.
“We should not allow ourselves to pick someone who would likely be disqualified,” he said.
Adelabu also stressed the need for the party to support a candidate who had contributed significantly to the growth and stability of the APC over the years.
