24/05/2026
ADELABU IS THE NEXT GOVERNOR OF OYO STATE: RESPONSE TO AYEKOOTO AKINDELE.
Your analysis makes an important point about the influence of party leadership in Nigerian politics, but I think the comparison with Tinubu’s emergence weakens the overall argument. If leadership is truly everything, then Tinubu would not have emerged against the wishes of powerful interests within the APC at the time. His victory showed that grassroots support, political relevance, popularity, and strategic alliances can sometimes override establishment preferences.
That same principle is why many Adelabu supporters believe he still has political value beyond the outcome of this primary. Politics is dynamic. Today’s “anointed candidate” can lose tomorrow if the people are not fully behind him. Leadership matters, yes, but followership also matters because leaders ultimately depend on the strength of the people supporting them.
Also, if the reports and figures coming out from the primary election truly reflect the mood on ground, then it clearly shows that many people in Oyo State want Adelabu as Governor. Grassroots support cannot be ignored because that is the real strength of any politician. Structures and endorsements may influence politics, but the people remain the ultimate force during the main election.
If Adelabu is genuinely commanding such massive support across the grassroots, then the party should carefully consider what that means for APC’s chances in the general election. Politics is not only about internal arrangements; it is also about presenting the candidate with the strongest connection to the people.
At the same time, party leaders should also understand that ignoring strong grassroots support repeatedly can create resentment within the party. Sustainable political success requires a balance between leadership decisions and the will of the people.
Senator Sharafadeen Alli should also understand that popularity at the grassroots level matters greatly in today’s politics. If the majority of party supporters and ordinary voters are aligning with Adelabu, then there is wisdom in allowing the popular will to prevail rather than creating deeper divisions within the party.
At the end of the day, APC needs unity, fairness, and a candidate that can truly mobilize the people against the ruling government in Oyo State. Ignoring the voice of the grassroots may weaken the party’s chances, while respecting it could strengthen APC ahead of the governorship election.
