The governorship candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Oyo State, Adebiyi Adedapo, has challenged African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke's claim of being a major contender in the 2027 governorship election. Adedapo argued that only the electorate can determine which parties and candidates command significant support at the ballot box.
Adegoke had stated during an interview on Arise Television that the ADC, Allied Peoples Movement (APM), and All Progressives Congress (APC) were the three major parties in the race. He described his candidacy as the "beautiful bride" because it was not tied to any political godfather. Adedapo responded, saying no candidate has the authority to confer the status of a major candidate on themselves.
Adedapo emphasized that the 2027 contest remains open to all political parties and duly nominated candidates. He stressed that electoral prominence cannot be established through media pronouncements. According to him, there are no major or minor political parties in the eyes of the law, only parties and candidates seeking the people's support.
The NNPP candidate accused Adegoke of attempting to narrow the governorship contest to three parties, disregarding other candidates participating in the election. Adedapo also questioned Adegoke's decision to make claims of political supremacy while the ADC's governorship ticket is subject to litigation. A Federal High Court in Ibadan adjourned a suit challenging the ADC's Oyo governorship candidacy to September 30.
Adedapo urged Adegoke to be cautious about declaring himself the dominant candidate in the race given the unresolved legal dispute. He stated that Adegoke's claim of being the "beautiful bride" was premature, as the election has not been held and no candidate has secured the people's mandate.
The NNPP candidate maintained that political popularity cannot be determined by individual claims. He argued that voters will ultimately decide which candidate has the strongest support. Adedapo concluded that claims of political supremacy will remain assertions until voters cast their ballots and the results are declared by the relevant electoral authorities.
Adedapo called on Adegoke to respect other parties and contestants in the race. He emphasized that the 2027 governorship election should be presented as a contest involving all eligible candidates rather than a restricted race. Leadership, Adedapo said, is earned through credibility, competence, and service, and ultimately confirmed by the people.
Key points
- Adebiyi Adedapo challenges Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke's claim of being a major candidate.
- The 2027 Oyo governorship election remains open to all parties and candidates.
- The NNPP candidate urges respect for all contestants in the race.
