2027: Adelabu courts APC ward executives, vows grassroots-driven governorship bid

Former Minister of Power and All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Adebayo Adelabu, has intensified his grassroots mobilization efforts ahead of the 2027 election.

On Wednesday, Adelabu met with APC ward executives from all 33 local government areas of the state at the Jogor Centre, Liberty Road, Ibadan. He described the ward executives as the pillars of the party and stressed that strengthening the party’s base was essential to reclaiming power in the next election.

Adelabu, who recently resigned from his federal position to pursue his governorship ambition, argued that no administration could achieve meaningful development without the input and participation of people at the grassroots level.

A day earlier, he had formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election at the APC state secretariat in Oke-Ado, Ibadan. During that meeting with members of the state executive council, he expressed confidence in securing the party’s ticket and rejected any move to impose a consensus candidate.

At Wednesday’s gathering, Adelabu noted that ward executives remain the closest link between the party and the people, adding that their role in shaping policies and driving political support cannot be overlooked.

“Sustainable progress in this state must begin from the communities, where the real impact of governance is felt,” he said. “My vision for 2027 goes beyond winning an election but focuses on inclusive development rooted in grassroots engagement.”

He urged the party leaders to remain united and committed to progressive ideals, warning that the APC’s victory in 2027 would depend largely on the strength and mobilisation capacity at the ward level.

Adelabu promised to prioritise the welfare of ward executives and involve them in decision-making if elected. He also appealed for their support, saying he would not disappoint the people of the state.

In response, APC leaders from various local governments, including Isiaka Alimi from Akinyele and Wale Sanusi from Ibadan North, commended Adelabu for his respect for the party and urged members to back his ambition.

His declaration follows recent endorsements of Senator Sharafadeen Alli, representing Oyo South, by some APC leaders as their preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship race.