Oyo 2027: APC is well-positioned to reclaim power – Oloye Wasiu Ajimobi

Afeez Bello ,
Ibadan, Oyo State.

Oloye Wasiu Ajimobi, the Ikolaba of Olubadan of Ibadanland, has expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State is well-positioned to reclaim power by 2027.

Speaking on the socio-political radio programme ‘Bosenlo’, hosted by Eyitayo Oyeladun, popularly known as Abo-oro, on Saturday, October 25 and monitored by this newspaper, Ajimobi addressed the current challenges facing the party, asserting that they have been exaggerated.

The politician, Oloye Ajimobi, emphasised the importance of unity among Oyo APC leaders, stating, “We are coming together to strengthen the party in preparation for 2027. Progressives always select candidates based on their track records.

Highlighting Oloye Bayo Adelabu as a key figure, Ajimobi remarked, “Adelabu is our collective project. I informed my late brother and our leader, Gov. Abiola Ajimobi during the 2019 gubernatorial primaries that Adelabu left his position as deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria to serve our state. While many capable aspirants were also involved, Adelabu emerged as the candidate due to his heavy credentials, wider acceptance, strong popularity and clear dedication to public service.

Ajimobi also recalled the 2019 party’s decisions, noting that Hon. Bimbo Kolade was initially favoured for Oyo Central but stepped aside for Sen. Teslim Folarin, who had defected from the PDP and has been instrumental in supporting the party’s success. “We recognised the need for unity as we move forward, and together we can,” he added.

On the importance of party cohesion, Oloye Ajimobi stated that Adelabu has actively engaged with stakeholders across various zones of the state to foster collaboration. “I advocate for free, fair, and transparent primaries. Every aspirant should demonstrate their popularity. Initially, party leaders may encourage aspirants to unite, but if a consensus is not reached, primaries should be held.”

Reflecting on past issues, Ajimobi acknowledged that the “winner-takes-all” mentality had detrimental effects on the party. He noted that demands from Adelabu’s camp during a stakeholders meeting in Ogbomoso were not met, leading to defections to Accord for the 2023 guber poll. “Imposition of candidates harms our party,” he stressed.

Addressing concerns about factionalism, Oloye Ajimobi asserted that the party does not belong to any specific bloc and emphasised the collaborative efforts between the Ajimobi matriarch and former First Lady of Oyo State, Chief (Dr) Florence Ajimobi, and Oloye Bayo Adelabu, dismissing rumours of conflict between the duo as unfounded. “Mama is our mother and leader. She deserves our honour, homage and recognition. Meanwhile, it is we, some supporters, who usually fuel the misconceptions.”

Regarding past grievances over candidate compensation, Oloye Ajimobi expressed his belief in the need for rewarding of gubernatorial candidates and other chieftains who have laboured for the party, noting that it’s the prerogative power of Mr President to choose whoever he wants as minister.

Oloye Ajimobi acknowledged ongoing conflicts of interest among aspirants but called for a spirit of healthy competition. “Adelabu, Folarin, and other aspirants must understand that only one will emerge as the candidate,” he remarked, urging all to support the chosen candidate to ensure the party’s success.

Oloye Ajimobi clarified that the APC has not yet selected a gubernatorial candidate in the state and emphasised the importance of advocating for unity and transparent primaries ahead of the 2027 elections. “We must learn from past experiences and work together for a victorious future.”