The dispute over the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship ticket in Oyo State has taken a new turn, with Dr Gbemileke Alagbe and Chief Niyi Aborisade insisting that the matter will be settled by the court. Alagbe had claimed to have won the party's governorship primary in May 2026, with Aborisade as his running mate. However, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) listed Adegboyega Adegoke as the ADC governorship candidate, prompting Alagbe and Aborisade to challenge the development.
The Federal High Court in Ibadan had adjourned further hearing in the suit challenging the ADC governorship candidate to September 30, 2026, following fresh applications and issues relating to the service of court processes. Despite the ongoing legal battle, Alagbe and Aborisade launched their governorship campaign in Oyo town, where they interacted with residents and traders. Aborisade maintained that the pendency of the case would not prevent them from meeting voters and presenting their plans for the state.
Aborisade expressed confidence that the judicial process would favour Alagbe and himself, urging supporters to remain calm and allow the court to determine the matter. He said, "We are the lawful candidates. Though some people have claimed they have removed our name from INEC, nevertheless, we are exercising our fundamental human right to meet the people, to discuss with them and to tell them what we have in mind to do for them."
The campaign, which featured a road walk and visits to markets in Oyo, including Ajegunle Market, was designed to showcase Alagbe and Aborisade's plans for the state. Aborisade explained that the decision to commence the campaign in Oyo town was due to its historical and cultural significance. He cited the American system, where presidential campaigns often begin in Iowa or New Hampshire, as an example.
Aborisade outlined the priorities of an ADC administration, including free education, greater autonomy for local governments, and improved security across Oyo State. The delegation also paid a courtesy visit to the Alago-Oja of Ago-Oja as part of their campaign. Alagbe and Aborisade's campaign is set to move to Ogbomoso, Ibarapa, and eventually Ibadan.
The dispute over the ADC governorship ticket has generated competing claims within the party, with Alagbe and Aborisade maintaining that they emerged from the May 22, 2026 governorship primary. The INEC's list of candidates, however, shows Adegboyega Adegoke as the ADC governorship candidate for Oyo State.
The court is expected to deliver a verdict on the matter on September 30, 2026. Until then, Alagbe and Aborisade will continue to campaign, presenting their plans to voters across the state. The outcome of the court's decision will determine the fate of the ADC governorship ticket in Oyo State.
Key points
- The Federal High Court in Ibadan has adjourned further hearing in the suit challenging the ADC governorship candidate to September 30, 2026.
- Alagbe and Aborisade have launched their governorship campaign in Oyo town, despite the ongoing legal battle over the party's candidacy.
- An ADC administration would prioritise free education, greater autonomy for local governments, and improved security across Oyo State.
