By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Chief Adebayo Adelabu, popularly known in political circles as Penkelemesi, on Tuesday formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), drawing a massive crowd of supporters and political associates to the historic Liberty Stadium in Ibadan.
The declaration, held on Tuesday, May 12, transformed the stadium into a carnival-like political gathering, with thousands of party loyalists, community leaders, and entertainment personalities filling the venue. The event marked one of the earliest major public signals of political realignment in Oyo ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
Adelabu, a former governorship candidate and influential APC chieftain in the state, used the occasion to formally announce his renewed ambition, promising to bring what he described as “inclusive governance, accelerated development, and economic prosperity” to Oyo State if elected.
Addressing cheering supporters, Adelabu said, “Today is not just about my personal ambition; it is about the future of Oyo State and the collective desire of our people for purposeful leadership. I have listened to the cries of the people, and I am prepared to serve with sincerity, competence, and accountability.”
He added that his decision to return to the governorship race was motivated by consultations with traditional leaders, party stakeholders, youth groups, and market associations across the state.
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“Oyo deserves better infrastructure, stronger institutions, improved security, and an economy that empowers our young people. By the grace of God and with the support of our party, we will build a state that works for everyone,” he said.
The Merit Newspaper reports that Adelabu’s declaration also drew attention because of his recent resignation as Nigeria’s Minister of Power under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Political analysts see his resignation as a clear indication of his determination to focus fully on the Oyo governorship race. Before serving in Tinubu’s cabinet, Adelabu had built a reputation as a banker, technocrat, and former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The declaration attracted notable APC figures and respected political stakeholders from across Oyo State. Among those seen at the event were Baba Muftau Adisa Gbayawu, Alhaji Wale Sanusi, Alhaji Abu Gbadamosi, a representative of Hosea Agboola (Halleluyah), Chief Kunle Sanda, Alhaji Isiaka Alimi, Alhaji Adeleke Bello Oladeji, Chief Goke Oyetunji, Deacon Adedayo Adeola, Alhaji Jelili Oyinloye, and Hon. Chief Lekan Adeyemo, former chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Oyo State.
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In a show of cultural and entertainment support, the rally also featured performances by prominent Nigerian musicians, turning the political gathering into a major social event. Among the performers were Fuji star Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, popularly known as Oganla Fuji, Rasheed Merenge, Tiri Leather, and hip-hop artiste Qdot.
Political observers say Adelabu’s declaration could intensify competition within the Oyo APC as the party begins early positioning for the next governorship election. His announcement comes amid growing political conversations over who will succeed Governor Seyi Makinde, whose second term will end in 2027.
Adelabu previously contested the Oyo governorship and remains one of the most visible opposition figures in the state. His supporters at the rally described his return as a sign that the APC is preparing for a strong challenge in the next electoral cycle.
As chants of “Penkelemesi for Governor” echoed across Liberty Stadium, the event underscored the growing tempo of political activities in Oyo State, even as the official campaign season remains months away. For many attendees, Tuesday’s declaration was more than a political announcement — it was an early demonstration of strength in what is expected to become one of the most closely watched governorship contests in southwest Nigeria.
