As Oyo State braces for the August 16 by-election in Ibadan North, Minister Bayo Adelabu faces a defining test—can he unify APC and preserve his emerging prominence? Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde watches closely; the result could cement his influence over Oyo’s political destiny heading into 2027.
1. APC Mobilizes: Campaign Council Rolled Out to Rally “Murphy”
In preparation for the August 16 by-election, the APC in Oyo State inaugurated a comprehensive campaign council, helmed by Hon. Akin Alabi as Director General, with multiple strategic committees—from reconciliation and security to media and election management—deployed to secure the party’s success. The campaign is anchored to the late Hon. Akinremi’s legacy and the promise of uninterrupted developmental progress.
2. Sleeper Spotlights: Adelabu’s Call for Voter Discipline
At the Bodija International Market launch, **Minister Adelabu urged APC members to “speak with their votes”—not fists—emphasizing that the by-election is about Tinubu, the Yoruba people, and preserving APC’s dominance in Ibadan North and beyond.
3. Internal Strife: Imposition Allegations Spark Fallout
Tensions surfaced as six APC aspirants publicly denounced what they called the “imposition” of Adewale Olatunji (“Murphy”) as the party’s flag bearer. They pressed for the elevation of consensus candidate Hon. Khalil Mustapha Repete, warning that accountability would lie with Minister Adelabu and ex-acting NWC Chairman Bukar Dalori if the election outcome falters.
This echoes deeper unease: several aspirants claim the primary lacked legitimacy and democratic integrity, alleging the entire delegate selection was orchestrated behind closed doors.
4. High Stakes: This By-Election Is More Than a Poll
Daily Post frames the August 16 contest as a battle of political might between APC and PDP, spotlighting its wider resonance for the 2027 election cycle. Governor Makinde, meanwhile, is taking a stake publicly—by backing PDP’s candidate, he seeks to assert the state’s continued allegiance to his party and values of good governance.
The August 16 by-election in Ibadan North has evolved into more than a contest—it's a crucible for APC’s internal cohesion, Adelabu’s leadership legitimacy, and Governor Makinde’s sway over Oyo’s political future. Can the party bridge its divisions? Will Adelabu’s influence hold? Or will Makinde capitalize and reshape the state’s political trajectory for 2027?
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