The political atmosphere within the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has once again taken a dramatic turn following the reported defection of former Oyo APC Vice-Chairman, Alhaji Isiaka Alimi, from the camp of Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, to that of Senator Sharafadeen Alli.
The development has sparked fresh conversations among party faithful and political observers ahead of the 2027 political permutations in Oyo State.
Alimi’s sudden switch of allegiance is particularly attracting attention because only a few weeks ago, the former APC chieftain publicly declared unwavering support for Adelabu, who remains one of the leading political figures within the Oyo APC fold. During several political gatherings and consultations, Alimi was seen strongly defending Adelabu’s political structure while openly criticizing and condemning members of the opposing faction within the party.
His comments at the time generated widespread reactions across political circles in Oyo State, especially among APC stakeholders already divided along different interests ahead of future elections.
However, in what many political analysts have described as a surprising political U-turn, Alimi has now reportedly aligned himself with Senator Sharafadeen Alli, the lawmaker representing Oyo South Senatorial District at the National Assembly.
Senator Alli, a former Secretary to the Oyo State Government and one of the most influential figures within the APC in the state, has continued to strengthen his political structure across the six local governments in Oyo South. His growing influence within the party has positioned him as one of the major power brokers ahead of future contests within the APC.
Sources within the party revealed that recent political consultations and strategic meetings may have contributed to Alimi’s decision to pitch his tent with the senator’s camp. Though no official statement has been released by Alimi detailing the reasons behind his move, the development has intensified speculations about ongoing realignments within the Oyo APC.
Political watchers believe the latest defection may signal deeper cracks within the party, especially among loyalists of key political gladiators preparing for possible governorship and senatorial ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.
Chief Bayo Adelabu, popularly known as “Penkelemesi,” remains a strong political force in Oyo politics despite losing the 2023 governorship election under the APC platform. Since his appointment as Minister of Power by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Adelabu has continued to maintain a visible political presence in Oyo State, with supporters insisting he still commands substantial grassroots followership.
On the other hand, Senator Sharafadeen Alli has steadily expanded his political relevance through legislative activities, consultations with stakeholders, and strategic alliances within the APC structure.
The latest development involving Isiaka Alimi has therefore added another layer to the ongoing political chess game within the party.
Many supporters of both camps have already taken to social media to express mixed reactions over the defection. While some described the move as a normal political realignment, others accused politicians of prioritizing personal interests over loyalty and ideology.
Observers say the situation reflects the fluid nature of Nigerian politics, where alliances often shift based on emerging interests, negotiations, and future ambitions.
As political activities gradually begin to gather momentum ahead of the next election cycle, more alignments and defections are expected within major political parties across the country, especially in states like Oyo where internal party structures remain highly competitive.
For now, the big question remains whether Isiaka Alimi’s switch to Senator Alli’s camp will influence more political stakeholders to reconsider their loyalties within the APC or whether it will merely remain another episode in the ever-dynamic political landscape of Oyo State.
What are your thoughts on this dramatic political turnaround?
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