Former Minister of Power and All Progressives Congress governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Bayo Adelabu, has decided against pursuing legal action over the party’s governorship primary, instead calling for a comprehensive reconciliation process ahead of the 2027 election.
Adelabu announced the decision in a statement issued in Ibadan on Thursday, saying his choice was motivated by the need to protect the unity and future of the APC in the state.
He stressed that his decision should not be interpreted as an admission that he lacked evidence or confidence in his position.
“This decision is not because of a lack of evidence, confidence or conviction. Neither should it be interpreted as an act of surrender or an indication that my aspiration to serve as governor of Oyo State is a do-or-die affair,” Adelabu said.
The former minister said he reached the decision after consultations with some APC leaders as well as representatives of his supporters across the 33 local government areas and 351 wards in Oyo State.
He explained that, as a loyal and committed member of the party, he had chosen not to pursue an internal appeal or commence legal proceedings over the primary at this time.
Some aspirants have rejected the emergence of Senator Sharafadeen Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, as the APC candidate for the 2027 governorship election.
The aggrieved aspirants have alleged that Alli was imposed on the party, leading to tension between some members and both the state and national leadership of the APC.
Adelabu’s decision to step away from a legal challenge could therefore ease some of the immediate pressure within the party, although his call for reconciliation suggests that significant grievances remain unresolved.
