Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the 2027 governorship race in Oyo State, setting the stage for what promises to be a heated political contest.
Adelabu made the declaration during a strategic meeting with party leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Oke-Ogun Zone 2 area of the state. He described his ambition to govern Oyo as a “divine calling,” declaring that the time has come for him to lead.
“Emi lokan—it is my turn,” Adelabu proclaimed to loud cheers from supporters. “I have been on this political journey for quite some time. In politics, one may not always get what one deserves in a single attempt. Life and politics have both taught me this lesson. I have paid my dues. I contested alongside Seyi Makinde in 2019 and again in 2023. Today, I declare: it is our turn, it is my turn in 2027, as God has revealed it. Adelabu! Àwálòkàn! Penkelemesi Èmilòkàn.”
The minister, a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), emphasized that his decision to run was driven by a genuine desire to advance development and improve the lives of the people of Oyo State—not personal gain.
Door-to-Door Campaign Strategy
Adelabu revealed that he would soon embark on a grassroots, door-to-door campaign across the state to mobilize support ahead of the 2027 polls. He expressed confidence that with unity among APC members, victory over the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is assured.
“A united APC owns Oyo State; PDP is a tenant in Agodi Government House,” he declared. “A divided house can never be victorious. APC will regain Oyo State in 2027.”
A History of Political Battles
Adelabu is no stranger to the Oyo governorship race. He first contested in 2019 under the APC but lost to Governor Seyi Makinde. Four years later, he returned to the field under the Accord Party but again fell short. His 2027 declaration marks his third attempt at the top seat in the state.
Political observers say his return to the APC fold, coupled with his current federal position, could strengthen his chances—especially if the party resolves its internal rifts and rallies behind a single candidate.
