Former Minister of Power and governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has distanced himself from the defection of his former aide, Ajiboye Akande, to the Allied People’s Movement. This development occurred during a rally held in Ibadan on Monday. According to a statement from Adelabu's media office, Ajiboye was no longer his personal assistant and had ceased to have any official, political, or representational relationship with him.
The working relationship between Adelabu and Ajiboye ended due to irreconcilable differences in their political alignments. Specifically, their differences arose after Ajiboye chose to align with the APM, a political direction contrary to Adelabu's party, the APC. On Monday, several supporters of the APC in the 33 local government areas of Oyo State, led by Ajiboye, joined the APM during the Boye Nation/JAF Movement Mega Concert held at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Adelabu emphasized that Ajiboye took a solo decision in defecting and making political statements at the rally. The former minister reiterated his commitment to the APC, stating that he remains a member of the party and has huge respect for President Bola Tinubu as his mentor and benefactor. Adelabu's support for President Tinubu is based on personal loyalty and his belief in due process and the legitimacy of the President’s emergence through a properly conducted primary process.
Adelabu clarified that his disagreement with aspects of the Oyo governorship nomination process does not imply an intention to leave the APC. He stressed that his concern is about the need for transparency and legitimacy in the process, not an excuse to abandon the party. Adelabu expressed his commitment to the APC, stating that he will not betray President Tinubu or abandon the party that provided him the opportunity to serve.
The former minister also addressed his governorship ambition, stating that it has never been a do-or-die affair. Adelabu expressed his desire for evidence of the prosecution of the governorship primary of the APC in Oyo State, emphasizing the need for transparency. He believes that the results of the exercise should be properly released, supported by relevant signed documents and other verifiable evidence.
Adelabu highlighted his continued engagement in various businesses, including real estate, hospitality, farming, and financial securities, since leaving public office. He emphasized that he does not need to jump from one political party to another simply to remain relevant. Adelabu's statement aims to distance himself from Ajiboye's defection and clarify his stance on his political career and party loyalty.
The development is significant in Oyo State's political landscape, especially with the 2027 elections approaching. Adelabu's governorship aspiration and his commitment to the APC will likely continue to be closely watched. The defection of Ajiboye Akande and other supporters to the APM may also impact the political dynamics in the state.
Key points
- - Adelabu distances self from ex-aide Ajiboye Akande's defection to APM. - Adelabu remains a member of APC, committed to President Bola Tinubu. - Adelabu seeks transparency in Oyo State's governorship primary process.
