𝐒𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐢 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐀𝐏𝐂’𝐬 𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐬 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐎𝐲𝐨 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟕 𝐆𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐑𝐚𝐜𝐞

•••a one-term agreement for Alli, potentially allowing power rotation to other zones in 2031

Senator Sharafadeen Alli has emerged as the leading consensus candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 elections, following high-level consultations among party stakeholders, 𝗜𝗧𝗩 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 confirms.

The development places Alli at the center of political calculations in the state, with multiple sources confirming that he enjoys broad acceptance across party factions and key traditional and political figures.

The move is said to have been influenced by a strategic meeting held in Lagos involving Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and other APC leaders from the South-West. At the meeting, stakeholders reportedly deliberated on consensus candidates for Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo states in preparation for the 2027 general elections.

Within Oyo APC circles, Alli’s candidacy is viewed as the most unifying option. Party insiders say his political experience, including his tenure as Secretary to the State Government and later as senator, has strengthened his appeal.

He is also believed to have the backing of the Olubadan of Ibadan, Rashidi Ladoja, under whom he previously served in key administrative roles.

A party source noted that, “Alli is seen as the only aspirant acceptable to all factions,” highlighting ongoing divisions that have weakened the party’s chances in past elections.

Among those expected to step aside or negotiate include Teslim Folarin and Minister of Power Bayo Adelabu, whose past electoral performances have raised concerns within the party.

Despite Alli’s frontrunner status, other aspirants remain influential. These include Teslim Folarin, Abdulfatai Buhari, and Minister of Power Bayo Adelabu.

However, concerns over Adelabu’s electoral strength reportedly played a role in consolidating support around Alli. Party stakeholders pointed to past election outcomes and internal divisions as factors limiting Adelabu’s viability.

In a bid to maintain party unity, discussions are ongoing to compensate other aspirants. One proposal includes offering the Oyo South senatorial ticket to Remi Oseni, a grassroots politician considered popular among voters.

Sources also disclosed that part of the consensus arrangement may include a one-term agreement for Alli, potentially allowing power rotation to other zones in 2031. While not officially confirmed, the idea reflects efforts to balance regional interests within the state.

The consensus approach is not limited to Oyo. In Lagos State, stakeholders are reportedly backing Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, while in Ogun State, Senator Olamilekan Adeola is said to be the preferred choice.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has already scheduled the governorship elections for February 6, 2027, with party primaries expected between April and May 2026.

Oyo APC stakeholders are expected to meet in Abuja later this week to finalize arrangements, including compensation for aspirants and formal endorsement procedures.

While consultations continue, Alli’s emergence signals a significant shift in Oyo’s political landscape, positioning him as the candidate to beat as the 2027 race gradually takes shape.