As political alignments intensify ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries in Oyo State, a major electoral bloc has issued a direct and controversial message that could reshape the party’s chances in 2027.
Speaking on behalf of the Igede community under the umbrella of the Igede Progressive Movement (IPM), Comrade Simon Ochete has declared that the emergence of Adebayo Adelabu as the APC gubernatorial candidate is non-negotiable if the party hopes to retain their support.
According to Ochete, the position is not rooted in sentiment alone, but in years of consistent engagement, recognition, and inclusion that the former Minister has extended to the Igede people in Oyo State.
> “Let it be clear—APC risks losing a massive, organized, and loyal voting bloc if Chief Adelabu is not given the ticket. We are not making empty threats; we are stating political reality,” Ochete emphasized.
A Strategic Voting Bloc Speaks
The Igede people, though originally from Benue State, have over the decades established themselves as a formidable socio-political force across Oyo State. With strong concentrations in agrarian communities spanning Oke-Ogun, Ibarapa, Ogbomoso, Ido, and Oyo zones, they are widely regarded as one of the most disciplined and cohesive voting populations in the state.
Their influence is particularly pronounced in rural constituencies, where elections are often decided not just by numbers, but by coordination and turnout consistency.
Operating under the IPM—the apex socio-political platform representing Igede interests in the South-West—the group has now adopted what it calls a “No Contest” stance for the upcoming electoral cycle, effectively signaling a unified political direction.
Sympathy, Recognition, and Political Loyalty
Ochete’s statement draws heavily on what he describes as years of marginalization by successive political actors, contrasted with the consistent support shown by Adelabu.
> “We may not be indigenous to Oyo State, but we are stakeholders. We farm the land, we feed the state, and we vote. Chief Adelabu is one of the few leaders who has acknowledged our contributions and treated us with dignity,” he stated.
This sense of recognition has translated into a growing emotional and political alignment with Adelabu’s ambition. Within many Igede settlements, there is a shared belief that his candidacy represents not just political opportunity, but respect and inclusion.
A Deciding Factor for 2027?
With the 2027 governorship race already drawing early calculations, political observers note that blocs like the Igede community could once again play a decisive role—especially in tightly contested primaries and general elections.
Their historical participation and bloc voting pattern make them a valuable asset to any serious contender.
Ochete warns that ignoring this reality could come at a steep cost:
> “We have remained loyal, organized, and peaceful. But loyalty must be reciprocated. If our voice is ignored at the primaries, we will be left with no choice but to reconsider our political alignment.”
The Adelabu Factor
For many within the IPM, Adebayo Adelabu is more than just a candidate—he is seen as a bridge between communities, a figure whose leadership could foster broader inclusion across ethnic and social lines in Oyo State.
As APC stakeholders deliberate on who carries the party’s flag, this bold declaration from a key voting bloc adds a new layer of urgency and pressure.
The message is clear, direct, and impossible to ignore:
No Adelabu, no deal.
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