Oyo 2027: Adelabu reacts to defection speculation

Former Minister of Power and Oyo State governorship aspirant, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has dismissed reports linking him with a planned defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Adelabu described the rumour as false, baseless and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and tarnish his political reputation.

In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Comrade Femi Awogboro, the former minister said he had neither contemplated nor initiated any move to leave the APC for any other political party.

According to the statement, reports of a defection were unfounded, especially as the APC governorship primary process in Oyo State had yet to be concluded.

“At no time has Chief Adelabu contemplated, initiated, discussed or authorised any move to the SDP or any other political party,” the statement said.

“It is important to note that the APC gubernatorial primary process has not even been concluded, and no result has been officially declared. Consequently, the fabrication of stories about a purported defection lacks any factual basis whatsoever.”

Adelabu maintained that he remains a committed member of the APC and that his political ambition is not driven by desperation.

The statement added that those behind the rumour were attempting to gain relevance by exploiting Adelabu’s name and growing political influence in the state.

“Chief Adelabu remains focused on his vision for Oyo State, committed to the ideals and processes of the APC, and determined to continue engaging the people on issues that matter to their future,” it said.

The former minister also warned those circulating the reports to retract the claims, stating that his legal team was reviewing the matter and could take legal action against those responsible for spreading what he described as defamatory allegations.

Adelabu is one of the leading figures expected to seek the APC ticket ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.