Political rivals Folarin, Adelabu hold reconciliation meeting in Ibadan

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Known political rivals in Oyo State, Senator Teslim Folarin and the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, on Sunday held a reconciliation meeting at Adelabu’s Iyaganku residence in Ibadan.

The visit, according to stakeholders, is being seen as a step towards fostering unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

An aide to the minister, Otunba Femi Awogboro, confirmed the meeting, describing it as a gesture of brotherhood and reconciliation. He referred to Folarin as “an elder brother who came to visit his junior,” noting that both leaders emphasised the importance of putting aside past grievances.

Awogboro added that the discussions centred on strengthening internal unity within the APC and working collectively to return the party to power in Oyo State in 2027. According to him, both men agreed that the party stands a better chance if its major actors present a united front.

The meeting follows Folarin’s earlier visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during which issues concerning the APC in Oyo were reportedly addressed. Together, the visits have fuelled speculation of a broader reconciliation effort at both state and national levels.

Folarin and Adelabu share a history of political rivalry dating back to 2019, when Adelabu emerged as the APC governorship candidate to succeed the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi. Their rivalry resurfaced in 2023 when Folarin secured the APC ticket, prompting Adelabu to defect to the Accord Party to pursue his ambition.

The Ibadan meeting is expected to pave the way for a more united front for the APC in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 elections.