In a bold move, the media office of Oloye Saheed Oladele, the Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland and an aspirant for the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial ticket in Oyo State, has criticized Hon. Akin Alabi, a third-term seeking Federal Representative for Egbeda/Ona Ara Federal Constituency. Oladele’s office took umbrage with Alabi’s recent statement suggesting that Oyo residents might replicate the 2023 voting pattern of supporting APC federally while voting for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the state level in 2027.
The media office of the Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland expressed disappointment in Alabi’s comments, describing them as ill-timed and capable of exacerbating existing tensions within the APC. According to Oladele’s office, Alabi’s statement undermines the party’s efforts to heal and unify after the losses in the 2023 gubernatorial election and the recent Ibadan North bye-election.
Oloye Oladele’s media office questioned Alabi’s loyalty to the APC, suggesting that the lawmaker might be planning to defect to the PDP to secure a third term in the House of Representatives. The office asserted that Oyo APC would not miss Alabi’s contributions, implying that his departure might not significantly impact the party.
The Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in Oyo State in 2027 would not depend on Governor Seyi Makinde’s support. Instead, Oladele suggested that Tinubu should nominate a marketable and unifying gubernatorial candidate who would be fair to all Oyo State residents, irrespective of their zones or backgrounds. According to Oladele, this approach would ensure a smooth sail for the APC in both the presidential and gubernatorial elections.
Oloye Oladele’s media office took a swipe at the PDP, criticizing the party’s governance in Oyo State under Governor Seyi Makinde. The office accused the PDP government of plunging the state into generational debt burdens and selling off ancestral lands, which, according to them, has led to a loss of popularity among Oyo people.
The media office advised Hon. Akin Alabi to retract his statement and offer an apology to Oyo APC and its members. Oladele’s office believes that Alabi’s comments were not only divisive but also harmful to the party’s unity and morale.
The statement from Oladele’s office underscores the importance of unity and marketable leadership in Oyo State’s political landscape. According to them, the APC’s success in the state depends on its ability to present a candidate who can unite the various zones and demographics within the state.
The ongoing exchange between Oladele and Alabi highlights the complex political dynamics in Oyo State. As the 2027 elections approach, political actors are positioning themselves, and alliances are being tested. The comments from both sides reflect the deeper tensions and strategies within the APC and between the APC and PDP.
The 2027 elections in Oyo State are shaping up to be highly competitive, with both the APC and PDP strategizing to win over voters. Oladele’s comments suggest that the APC is focusing on presenting a strong, unifying candidate who can appeal to voters across different zones in the state.
The media office of the Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland has sent a strong message to Hon. Akin Alabi, urging him to reconsider his comments and align with the APC’s unity efforts. As Oyo State’s political landscape continues to evolve, the APC’s ability to present a united front and a marketable candidate will be crucial in determining its success in the 2027 elections.
The exchange between Oladele and Alabi serves as a reminder of the importance of strategic communication in politics. As political actors navigate the complexities of Oyo State’s political environment, their ability to maintain unity and present a strong, inclusive leadership vision will be key to their success.
