APC must heal divisions before 2027, says Adelabu

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Minister of Power and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has described the party’s loss in the just-concluded Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election as painful but instructive.

In a statement issued through his media aide, Bolaji Tunji, Adelabu congratulated the winner, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), while stressing that the outcome should serve as a wake-up call for genuine reconciliation and collective action within the APC.

“I received the outcome with mixed feelings — sad that we lost as a party, but humbled by the people’s verdict. This defeat should inspire us to reflect deeply, heal divisions, and reconcile ahead of 2027,” he said.

The minister noted that the APC remains a strong party with a record of impactful governance but emphasized the need for unity, internal cohesion, and renewed commitment to the people’s welfare. He identified voter apathy, even among APC members, as a sign that unresolved grievances weakened the party’s chances.

Adelabu, however, dismissed suggestions that the PDP’s victory signified widespread popularity, citing the low voter turnout of 13 percent and accusing the ruling party of relying on state resources and vote buying. He expressed confidence that the political tide would shift in 2027 once Governor Seyi Makinde’s influence wanes.

Addressing allegations that he influenced the emergence of the APC candidate, Wale Olatunji Murphy, Adelabu denied any involvement in the primaries. He insisted he only pledged support to whoever emerged and described insinuations of imposition as part of the challenges of leadership.

Calling for reconciliation, he urged APC leaders and members across Oyo State to avoid blame games and prioritize unity. “No aspiration is too big to be sacrificed for the unity, peace, and progress of our party. Together, we can restore confidence and return APC to winning ways,” he stated.

Adelabu also commended the electorate for their participation and praised INEC for conducting a peaceful election, but warned against the continued tolerance of vote buying, insisting that credible polls remain vital for Nigeria’s democracy.