Former Senator representing Osun Central, Olusola Adeyeye, has cautioned political parties against underestimating the 2027 general election. As the South-West Coordinator of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, Adeyeye emphasized that the APC is working diligently to secure victory in the upcoming election. He warned that any party expecting an easy win could be setting itself up for disappointment.
Adeyeye made these remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics. He expressed confidence in the APC’s prospects in the South-West, citing the party’s unity as a crucial factor in its performance across the region. According to Adeyeye, the APC will win big in the South-West and shock everybody. He attributed the party’s potential success to its unity, warning that divided parties risk losing elections.
The former lawmaker also targeted victory in Osun State in 2027. He questioned the extent to which Governor Ademola Adeleke’s popularity could translate into support for the Peoples Democratic Party. Adeyeye suggested that some of the governor’s appeal was linked to his family background. This assertion implies that Adeleke’s popularity may not necessarily benefit the PDP in the long run.
Adeyeye was also asked about the potential influence of former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, who is associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He pointed to the ADC’s performance in the August 15, 2026 Osun governorship election and questioned its showing in Ilesa and Osun Central. Adeyeye seemed unimpressed by Aregbesola’s potential impact, citing the ADC’s poor performance in key areas.
While acknowledging Aregbesola’s popularity, Adeyeye noted that his personal support could not automatically be transferred to another politician if he was not the candidate. Adeyeye described Aregbesola as a magnificent person, much loved, but emphasized that his affection for Aregbesola could not be transferred to another person. This suggests that Aregbesola’s influence may be limited if he is not directly involved in the election.
Adeyeye referenced former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s electoral history to argue that losing the South-West would not, by itself, determine the outcome of a presidential election. He cited Obasanjo’s example, where he lost the South-West but went on to become President. This historical context suggests that the APC’s performance in the South-West, while important, is not the sole determining factor in the election.
The 2027 presidential election is scheduled for January 16, 2027, according to the electoral calendar published by the Independent National Electoral Commission. Adeyeye’s comments reflect the growing tensions and strategizing ahead of the election. As the election approaches, political parties are intensifying their efforts to secure victory.
Key points
- Adeyeye warns against underestimating the 2027 election.
- APC targets victory in Osun State.
- Adeyeye references Obasanjo's electoral history.
