Former Osun State Governor, Adebisi Akande, and former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba, have reportedly advised the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, to reconsider his plan to contest the Oyo State governorship in 2027.
The elder statesmen were said to have urged Adelabu to prioritise the unity and broader interests of the All Progressives Congress rather than pursue an ambition that could deepen internal divisions.
Their intervention follows increasing speculation that the minister may soon step down from the cabinet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to focus on his governorship bid.
Sources familiar with the situation indicated that Adelabu could resign within the week, although there has been no official confirmation.
Adelabu previously contested the Oyo governorship election in 2019 under the APC and again in 2023 on the platform of the Accord Party. He has consistently signalled interest in running again in 2027.
However, recent political signals suggest he may not enjoy the backing of key figures within the party. At a recent campaign flag-off event in Ibadan, the senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Sharafadeen Alli, attracted significant support from party stakeholders and is widely seen as a strong contender.
Notably, Adelabu and another former governorship candidate, Teslim Folarin, were absent from the event, further highlighting emerging cracks within the party.
Earlier, President Tinubu had directed all political appointees seeking elective offices to resign by March 31, 2026. Despite indications of his intention to contest, Adelabu did not step down before the deadline, fuelling uncertainty about his next move.
Nevertheless, his supporters maintain that he remains firmly in the race. A source close to the minister confirmed his continued loyalty to the APC, dismissing any suggestion of a possible defection.
“He remains in the APC,” the source said when asked if Adelabu might consider another political platform.
Another source disclosed that APC leaders from the South-West recently held an interactive session with the minister in Lagos to discuss his ambition and its potential impact on party cohesion and President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election prospects.
“I can confirm that it was not exactly a formal meeting but an interactive session focused on his governorship ambition,” the source said.
“The session, held in Lagos, had Chief Osoba, Baba Akande, and other South-West leaders in attendance. They advised him to step aside from the race and align with moves that would strengthen the party and support President Tinubu’s second-term bid.
“The minister appeared receptive to their counsel, and the engagement ended on a positive note. While such advice is not binding, his disposition suggests he may take it seriously.”
According to the source, party leaders stressed the importance of unity within the APC and warned against moves that could disrupt political stability in the South-West ahead of the 2027 elections.
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