As the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election draws near on August 16, 2025, the political atmosphere in Oyo State is heating up. Two leading contenders have emerged—Adewale “Murphy” Olatunji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Hon. Folajimi “DoN” Oyekunle of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)—each bringing unique strengths, loyal followings, and contrasting campaign narratives.
This election was triggered by the passing of the late Hon. Musiliu Olaide Akinremi, a respected APC lawmaker. Now, both parties are scrambling to win the hearts of voters in what promises to be a defining political battle for the constituency.
Murphy: Riding on Legacy and Party Strength
For the APC, Adewale “Murphy” Olatunji has been positioned as the natural successor to continue the late Akinremi’s legacy. Backed by a well-oiled party structure, Murphy enjoys the support of key APC figures, including Minister for Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, and Oyo APC chairman Pharmacist Olayide Abas.
The party’s messaging leans heavily on continuity in progressive governance, urging voters to maintain the developmental trajectory set by the late lawmaker. APC strategists are banking on Ibadan North’s historically pro-progressive voting pattern to keep the seat in their column.
However, Murphy’s candidacy has not been without controversy. There are reports of internal party friction over candidate imposition during the primaries, which could dampen enthusiasm among grassroots members if not properly managed.
DoN: Championing Unity and Community Development
On the other side of the ring is Hon. Folajimi “DoN” Oyekunle, a former Oyo State lawmaker and Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde. The PDP candidate has run a highly people-focused campaign, earning the public endorsement of Governor Makinde, who describes him as “a tested and trusted politician.”
DoN has conducted extensive grassroots mobilization, visiting all 12 wards in Ibadan North, engaging with traditional rulers, religious leaders, artisans, youths, and market associations. This deep, community-level engagement has won him cross-party support—several former APC councilors and leaders have defected to the PDP, bringing their political structures along.
Beyond politics, DoN has a track record of tangible impact. Through his foundation, he has championed projects in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. His recent community interventions include installing solar street lights and commissioning boreholes in underserved areas—moves that resonate strongly with voters who value immediate, visible change.
Strengths and Weaknesses: A Clear Contrast
Adewale “Murphy” Olatunji (APC) and Hon. Folajimi “DoN” Oyekunle (PDP) respectively
Strengths: Strong APC backing, legacy narrative, historical voter lean towards progressives.
Strengths: Grassroots acceptance, Governor’s endorsement, cross-party defections, tangible development projects.
Weaknesses: Internal party tensions, candidate imposition complaints.
Weaknesses: Faces APC’s established electoral machinery, needs high voter turnout to overcome structure advantage.
The Verdict: Legacy vs. Legitimacy
This by-election is shaping up to be a battle of structure versus grassroots energy. Murphy represents the stability and political muscle of the APC, while DoN embodies unity, inclusivity, and on-the-ground action.
Whichever candidate can best translate their strengths into actual voter turnout on August 16 will likely walk away with the victory. But make no mistake—Ibadan North is in for one of the most competitive and defining electoral contests in recent years.
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