The apex leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State on Friday endorsed Senator Sharafadeen Alli as the party’s consensus governorship candidate for the 2027 election.
The decision was ratified at a high-level leadership summit held in Samonda, Ibadan, as part of efforts to consolidate unity within the party.
The endorsement reflects a growing trend within the APC, following similar consensus arrangements recently adopted in Lagos and Ogun states.
Party leaders said the approach is aimed at avoiding internal divisions and strengthening the party’s chances in the next general election.
Speaking at the summit, Senator Ayo Adeseun disclosed that the endorsement followed extensive consultations, including discussions with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Mr. President remains the leader of our party, and his opinion on who flies the party’s flag must be given due consideration,” Adeseun said.
He noted that Alli had already declared his intention to contest before the consensus was reached.
Another party chieftain, Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle, also confirmed that President Tinubu backed Alli’s candidacy.
He urged other aspirants within the party to align with the decision in the interest of unity.
Ibikunle stressed that cohesion would be critical for the APC to mount a strong challenge in the governorship race.
The summit attracted a large number of party leaders and stakeholders from across the 33 local government areas of the state.
The turnout underscored the significance of the endorsement and the party’s resolve to present a united front.
In his remarks, Alli thanked party leaders for their support and pledged to deliver inclusive governance if elected.
He assured members that he would not disappoint them and expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his guidance.
TheTimes Nigeria reports that Adebayo Adelabu, a former Minister of Power, had recently resigned his position to contest for the governorship ticket on the platform of the APC.
