The African Action Congress (AAC) in Oyo State has announced Chief Saheed Oladele, the Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland, as its candidate for the 2027 governorship election. According to the party's Oyo State Publicity Secretary, Mr Ismail Olalekan, Oladele is a selfless leader whose candidacy marks a significant homecoming. He is described as a committed Nigerian, people-focused leader, and educationist with notable achievements in youth development and public affairs.
Oladele's emergence as the AAC's candidate followed a rigorous internal process and consultations within the party and with stakeholders across Oyo State. The party asserts that his candidacy reflects its commitment to presenting a candidate who understands the aspirations of ordinary residents and is prepared to advance the party's principles. The AAC also unveiled Mrs Damola Jaye as Oladele's running mate.
Mrs Jaye brings a deep political lineage and a robust Oke Ogun collaboration to the ticket. The duo of Oladele and Jaye represents an electoral platform focused on addressing critical issues in Oyo State, including poverty, educational retrogression, and poor local government development. Their platform aims to "take Oyo State back from the shackles of modern slavery, abject poverty, educational retrogression, poor development at the local government level, and unnecessary mortgaging of the future of Oyo State."
Chief Oladele, as the Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland, is expected to leverage his experience and reputation to drive positive change in Oyo State. His background in education and youth development is seen as an asset for the AAC's campaign. The party's decision to choose Oladele is perceived as a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the state and provide a viable alternative to existing political parties.
The 2027 governorship election in Oyo State is anticipated to be highly competitive, with various political parties vying for the top seat. The AAC's choice of Oladele and Jaye as its candidates is expected to intensify the electoral contest. Other political parties are also likely to unveil their candidates and campaign strategies in the coming weeks.
The announcement of Oladele as the AAC's candidate has generated significant interest and reactions from various stakeholders in Oyo State. Supporters of the party have expressed optimism about Oladele's chances of winning the election, citing his leadership qualities and commitment to the development of the state. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the party's ability to compete with established political parties.
As the election approaches, the AAC's campaign strategy and manifesto are expected to be unveiled, providing further insight into Oladele's vision for Oyo State. The party's performance in the election will be closely watched, as it seeks to make a significant impact in the state's political landscape.
Key points
- African Action Congress names Chief Saheed Oladele as 2027 Oyo State governorship candidate.
