A significant rift has emerged within the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following comments made by party chieftain, Barrister Akeem Agbaje, regarding an alleged “Abuja Candidate” for the 2027 gubernatorial election. The Adelabu Ambassadors, a group within the APC, have vehemently challenged Agbaje, demanding he publicly identify the individual he claims has been endorsed by figures in the nation’s capital.
The controversy stems from an interview granted by Agbaje in Ibadan on Monday, May 5, 2025, wherein he cautioned an unnamed “Abuja Candidate” against assuming an automatic nomination, asserting he was “waiting to be imposed.” This statement has drawn sharp criticism from the Adelabu Ambassadors, who accuse Agbaje of lacking the courage to substantiate his claims.
In a press release disseminated to acrossnigerianews.com, the group labelled Agbaje a “coward lawyer,” alleging his refusal to name the purported candidate demonstrates a lack of fortitude. “Oyo State is too sensitive to be placed in the hands of someone like Agbaje, who is not courageous enough to mention the name of the endorsed Abuja Candidate,” the statement read.
The Adelabu Ambassadors further clarified the position of Oloye Adebayo Adelabu, the current Minister of Power, who they affirmed is actively considering a gubernatorial bid in 2027. They explicitly stated that Adelabu, contrary to Agbaje’s insinuations, is not avoiding a contest and welcomes a free, fair, and transparent party primary to determine the APC’s candidate.
The group also referenced the APC’s defeat in the 2023 gubernatorial election, attributing it to “a conspiracy of certain individuals” who prioritized personal interests over the party’s collective goals. They cautioned Agbaje against creating “imagination and friction” that could destabilize the party’s burgeoning unity.
While acknowledging Agbaje’s right to pursue his political ambitions, the Adelabu Ambassadors issued a stern warning against “slander and libel” aimed at damaging the reputation of other party members. They emphasized the importance of internal harmony and urged all stakeholders to refrain from actions that could further divide the APC in Oyo State.
This escalating dispute highlights the growing tensions within the Oyo APC as the 2027 election cycle approaches. The demand for transparency and open primaries underscores the party’s internal struggle to maintain cohesion while navigating the complex dynamics of political ambition and influence.
