Former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress.
Adelabu made the declaration on Tuesday during a political gathering held at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
The event attracted several prominent members and leaders of the APC, including Chief Kunle Sanda, Chief Isiaka Alimi and Chief Wale Sanusi, among other party stakeholders and supporters.
Addressing party members and supporters at the venue, Adelabu said his decision to rejoin the governorship race was driven by his desire to deliver greater development and improved governance to the people of Oyo State.
The former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria stated that the state deserved more dividends of democracy, particularly in areas such as security, economic development and grassroots governance.
“Today is a day to reclaim Oyo State to genuine progress,” Adelabu said during his speech.
He expressed confidence that 2027 would mark a turning point for his political ambition, recalling his previous governorship bid in 2019 and appreciating party leaders and supporters who had remained loyal to him over the years.
Adelabu also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his Renewed Hope agenda and acknowledged the support of APC leaders in the state.
According to him, governance should extend beyond political rhetoric and produce visible improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens.
“Oyo State deserves security and stability because governance goes beyond rhetoric,” he stated.
The former minister promised to implement projects and policies that would improve infrastructure, strengthen the economy and enhance living conditions across the state if elected governor.
He further noted that his experience in public service, banking and economic management had prepared him to lead Oyo State towards greater economic growth and sustainable development.
Political observers believe Adelabu’s declaration may intensify political activities within the APC ahead of the 2027 election cycle, as potential aspirants continue consultations and mobilisation across the state.
The governorship race in Oyo State is expected to attract significant attention in the coming months as political parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the next general elections.