A governorship hopeful of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, Adebayo Adelabu, has clarified that neither President Bola Tinubu nor the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has endorsed any aspirant ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Adelabu made this known on Thursday while addressing party supporters in Ibadan shortly after returning from Abuja.
He dismissed circulating claims of endorsements as unfounded, urging party members to ignore such reports.
“President Tinubu has not backed any candidate. The race is open to all aspirants,” Adelabu said.
“As the President of the entire country, he has responsibilities that cover all states and cannot single out an individual for support in a state contest.”
According to him, the President has instead encouraged party stakeholders to either build consensus or allow a democratic process through primaries.
“He advised that we should engage among ourselves as party members and leaders to reach a consensus. Where that is not achievable, we should proceed with direct primaries,” he added.
Reacting to speculations that the Olubadan had thrown his weight behind a particular aspirant, Adelabu described such claims as mere rumours.
“The Olubadan is a father figure to everyone in Ibadanland, regardless of political leanings. I do not believe he has endorsed anyone,” he stated.
Adelabu, who recently stepped down as Minister of Power to pursue his governorship ambition, also used the opportunity to restate his vision for the state. He pledged inclusive leadership if elected.
“My aspiration is not driven by personal gain or to favour a select group. It is about serving the people — the poor, women, youths, and all residents of Oyo State,” he said.
