Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
The All Progressives Congress on Thursday officially presented the Independent National Electoral Commission nomination form to its Oyo State governorship candidate, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, and unveiled Adesoji Adedeji as his running mate for the 2027 election.
Speaking after receiving the nomination form, Alli described his emergence as the party’s flagbearer as a victory for all APC members and called for unity among stakeholders ahead of the governorship poll.
He appealed to other aspirants and their supporters to work together for the party’s success, saying the task of reclaiming power in Oyo State would require collective commitment and sacrifice.
“Our people are yearning for leadership that listens, unites and understands their pains. They deserve a government that works for everyone, regardless of religion, ethnicity, social class or geopolitical zone,” Alli said.
The senator pledged to prioritise agriculture, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, infrastructure, environmental sustainability and inclusive economic growth if elected governor.
“I will remain accessible, accountable and a good listener. I will never take the trust of the people for granted. Let us reject division, embrace unity and work together to restore the true Pacesetter glory of Oyo State,” he added.
Presenting the nomination form, APC Deputy National Auditor, Gbenga Olayemi, urged party members to rally behind Alli, describing him as the party’s standard-bearer in the race.
Also speaking, Oyo APC Chairman and former Deputy Governor, Moses Adeyemo, stressed the need for unity within the party, expressing confidence in the APC’s chances in the 2027 election.
“By the grace of God, come May 29, 2027, our governor and deputy governor will be Senator Sharafadeen Alli and Hon. Adesoji Adedeji. I plead with us in the name of the Lord to come together,” he said.
Adedeji, a 46-year-old Economics graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, hails from Iwo-Ate in Ogo Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo State. He is also the younger brother of the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr Zacch Adedeji.
Accepting his nomination, Adedeji thanked the party leadership for the confidence reposed in him and expressed optimism that the APC would secure victory in the 2027 governorship election.
