Minister Adebayo Adelabu: The Root of Oyo APC’s Problems -By Ismail Omipidan

The recent article by Mr. Ismail Omipidan , “Ibadan North: How ‘Powerless’ minister frittered away a golden chance,” further solidifies my conviction that Minister Adebayo Adelabu is the primary obstacle to the All Progressives Congress’s (APC) success in Oyo State. Omipidan’s write-up masterfully exposes Adelabu’s leadership style and its detrimental impact on the party.

As Omipidan aptly pointed out, Adelabu’s imposition of an Osun-born aspirant as the APC candidate for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election, despite opposition from other party leaders, was a recipe for disaster. This decision ultimately led to the party’s scandalous defeat at the hands of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The article highlights the dominance of established forces within the Oyo APC, such as Senators Sharafadeen Abiodun ALLI , Senator Buhari AbdulFatai Ph.D , and Oloye Teslim Kolawole Folarin . Folarin, the APC governorship candidate in 2023, played a crucial role in the party’s presidential election efforts. In contrast, Adelabu defected to the Accord Party during the governorship election and later received a ministerial appointment.

I wholeheartedly agree with Omipidan’s suggestion that the party should compensate Folarin’s camp for their loyalty and hard work. However, I firmly believe that the only permanent solution to Oyo APC’s problems is for both Minister Adelabu Adebayo Adekola and Senator Teslim Folarin to step aside from the party’s governorship ticket in 2027. Both individuals have contested for the governorship several times; it’s time for them to rest and allow another person from the party to pick the ticket.

The continuous leadership tussle between Bayo Adelabu and Teslim Kolawole Folarin will only further divide the party and affect its success. By stepping aside, they can pave the way for the party success.