The political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State is gradually gathering momentum, and recent developments in Abuja have once again placed Senator Sharafadeen Alli at the center of the conversation.
Following reports of a successful gubernatorial screening exercise held in Abuja, political observers and party loyalists have continued to ask one major question: if Senator Alli was present and actively participating in the process, where were the other aspirants expected to be in the race?
The development has sparked fresh debates within Oyo political circles, especially among members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), where Alli has increasingly emerged as one of the most visible and organized figures positioning for the 2027 governorship contest.
In a statement released after the screening, the senator expressed gratitude and optimism about the journey ahead.
> “Today’s successful gubernatorial screening in Abuja is another important step in the journey ahead. As I signed the official register, I reflected on the responsibility before us and the hope of the people we serve. I remain committed to building a more progressive and united Oyo State for everyone. Thank you for your continued support and prayers.”
The message, accompanied by the campaign-style hashtag #BSA27, has since generated reactions across social media and political platforms, with supporters describing it as a signal of seriousness, structure, and readiness ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Senator Alli, who currently represents Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, officially declared his governorship ambition in April 2026 after consultations with party leaders and stakeholders across the state.
His emergence has continued to attract endorsements from influential APC stakeholders in Oyo State. In recent weeks, several party leaders reportedly backed him as a consensus figure capable of repositioning the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to reports, the endorsement followed strategic consultations involving top APC figures and discussions centered on party unity and electability.
Political analysts believe Alli’s steady visibility, early consultations, and active participation in party processes are helping him build momentum at a time when many expected contenders are yet to publicly show similar levels of engagement.
The Abuja screening appearance has therefore become more than just a routine political activity. For many observers, it was a symbolic statement — one that reinforced the perception that the senator is already taking concrete steps while others remain politically silent or undecided.
Within Oyo APC circles, the conversation is gradually shifting from mere speculation to strategic positioning. Supporters of Alli argue that consistency, accessibility, and political experience may ultimately shape the direction of the party’s governorship ticket.
Over the years, Alli has held several key positions in public service, including serving as Secretary to the Oyo State Government and Chief of Staff under former Governor Rashidi Ladoja before becoming senator representing Oyo South.
His supporters also point to his legislative experience and grassroots connections across Ibadan and other parts of the state as factors strengthening his political relevance ahead of 2027.
Meanwhile, the larger Oyo governorship contest is expected to become one of the most closely watched political battles in the South-West as Governor Seyi Makinde prepares to complete his second term in office. By constitutional provision, Makinde will not be eligible to seek re-election in 2027, opening the field for a fresh political contest.
While several names have been mentioned across different political camps, Senator Alli’s recent actions appear to have given him an early visibility advantage.
For now, however, the question dominating political discussions remains unchanged:
If the screening happened in Abuja and Sarafadeen Alli was there… where exactly were the others?
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