2027: Group urges credibility in Oyo APC candidate selection

A socio-political group, AKK, has urged the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State to prioritise credibility and competence in selecting its governorship candidate for the 2027 election.

The call was made in a statement issued on Thursday by the group’s head, Sunday Ademoroti, who stressed that the stakes of the election require strategy rather than sentiment.

Mr Ademoroti noted that the success of reforms under President Bola Tinubu would largely depend on state-level leadership.

“Governors are now the engines driving delivery, execution, and real impact,” he said.

Call for strategy

Describing Oyo State as being at “a defining crossroads,” the group warned against repeating past political mistakes that have hindered progress.

“This election cannot be about noise, popularity, or sentiment alone,” Mr Ademoroti said.

“It must instead focus on capacity, ideas, and the ability to deliver.”

He added that the state has not lacked politicians but rather “coordinated, idea-driven leadership that can translate vision into measurable progress.”

Candidate expectations

The group emphasised the need for a candidate capable of uniting party factions, competing effectively against opposition parties, and delivering development after the election.

It specifically identified Dr Adewale Kareem as a suitable contender, citing his perceived ability to bridge internal divisions within the party.

“At a time when APC’s greatest internal threat remains division, his ability to maintain acceptability across different blocs within the party positions him as a natural unifier,” the statement read.

Mr Ademoroti also highlighted Dr Kareem’s policy-driven approach, noting that it reflects practical governance beyond general promises.

“States that align with federal reforms will be better positioned to attract support, implement policies efficiently, and achieve faster development outcomes. Kareem demonstrates readiness to operate within this framework,” he said.

Consensus caution

While supporting the idea of consensus, the group warned that it must be credible and widely accepted to avoid internal crises.

“If such a consensus cannot be achieved, the party must not hesitate to adopt direct primaries,” Mr Ademoroti added.