Exclusive: Barring Last-Minute Twist, Alli Poised to Clinch Oyo APC Guber Ticket

A strong shift in momentum is unfolding within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State as Sarafadeen Alli formally steps into the 2027 governorship race, picking up his nomination form in Abuja amid a powerful show of support from federal lawmakers.

The Oyo South senator was accompanied by key National Assembly figures, including Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, Akin Alabi, Remi Oseni, Akeem Adeyemi, and Yunus Akintunde—a development widely seen as an early consolidation of legislative backing.

Observers interpret the high-profile outing as a strategic move to assert early dominance ahead of what is expected to be a fiercely contested APC primary.

Alli’s longstanding political ties to Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja—under whom he served as Secretary to the State Government and Chief of Staff—have reinforced his acceptability within key Ibadan political and traditional blocs. These dynamics are further linked to broader alignments involving Bola Ahmed Tinubu, especially recalling his presence at Ladoja’s coronation, a moment seen as symbolic of enduring political relationships.

While no formal endorsement has been issued by the presidency or APC national leadership, insiders point to subtle alignments that could shape the primaries. The presence of multiple lawmakers is viewed as both a loyalty signal and a calculated effort to influence delegate sentiment across the state.

Meanwhile, other major contenders are beginning to show their hands. Adebayo Adelabu, who recently resigned his ministerial role, has also picked his governorship form. Other aspirants, including Akeem Alao and Akeem Agbaje, have followed suit.

In Oyo North, uncertainty surrounds Fatai Buhari, with rumors suggesting a possible senatorial bid instead of a governorship run—claims allies have dismissed. Meanwhile, a retired military officer, Gbenga Adegbola, has reportedly shifted focus by picking a senatorial form.

Adding another layer to the unfolding drama, a leadership summit held around Samonda in Ibadan reportedly featured prominent figures like Senator Adeseun and Fatai Ibikunle, where it was claimed that a message attributed to Bola Ahmed Tinubu described Alli as a “consensus candidate”—a claim yet to be officially confirmed.

Despite growing momentum, analysts caution that Oyo politics remains highly fluid, often shaped by last-minute alliances, zoning dynamics, and internal negotiations. While Alli’s early push positions him as a frontrunner, the race remains open—and unpredictable.