2027 Shake-Up: Tinubu Ally Adelabu Under Fire As Party Elders Demand Exit From Governorship Contest

The two senior APC figures were said to have urged the minister to prioritise party unity and align with broader strategic interests within the All Progressives Congress (APC), rather than pursue a contest that could deepen internal divisions.

Their intervention comes amid rising speculation that Adelabu may resign from the cabinet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to focus fully on his governorship ambition, although no official confirmation has been made.

Sources indicate that the minister could step down from his ministerial position within the week, even as uncertainty continues to surround his political direction.

Adelabu, who previously contested the Oyo governorship in 2019 under the APC and again in 2023 on the platform of the Accord Party, has consistently signaled interest in another bid in 2027.

However, recent political signals suggest resistance from influential stakeholders within the APC, who are reportedly weighing alternative candidates.

At a recent campaign event in Ibadan, the senator representing Oyo South, Sharafadeen Alli, attracted strong backing from party leaders, further fueling speculation about shifting support within the party.

Notably absent from the gathering were Adelabu and former governorship candidate Teslim Folarin, an absence interpreted by observers as a sign of deepening factional divisions.

Earlier, President Tinubu had instructed all political appointees with electoral ambitions to resign by March 31, 2026. Despite this, Adelabu remained in office, adding to uncertainty over his next political step.

While some sources suggest he is still weighing his options, insiders close to the minister insist he remains committed to the APC.

A party source confirmed that South-West APC leaders recently held an engagement with Adelabu in Lagos, where discussions focused on his ambition and its potential impact on party unity and Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.

According to the source, party elders emphasised the need for cohesion in the South-West and cautioned against moves that could destabilise the region’s political balance.

The discussions reportedly ended on a conciliatory note, with indications that Adelabu may be receptive to the counsel, though no final decision has been made.