Internal party democracy has taken centre stage in Oyo State as a governorship aspirant, Adebayo Adelabu, insists that the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the 2027 election remains open, dismissing reports of endorsements by key national and traditional figures.

Adelabu, a former Minister of Power, spoke in Ibadan after returning from Abuja, where he addressed party members and supporters amid growing speculation over who might emerge as the party’s preferred candidate.

He said there was no directive from President Bola Tinubu backing any individual, urging party faithful to ignore what he described as misleading claims.

According to him, the President’s position is clear: party stakeholders should either agree on a consensus candidate or allow the process to be decided through primaries. Adelabu noted that this approach reflects the broader responsibility of the President, who oversees governance across the country and is not expected to favour any single aspirant at the state level.

He also addressed claims involving the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, stating that reports of royal endorsement were unfounded. Adelabu emphasised that the traditional ruler, as a unifying figure, is expected to remain neutral and above partisan considerations.

The development comes as political activities begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with aspirants positioning themselves and party structures testing their internal cohesion. Observers say the insistence on either consensus or direct primaries could shape how candidates emerge, especially in states with multiple strong contenders.

Adelabu, who recently resigned from the federal cabinet to pursue his ambition, said his campaign would focus on inclusive governance if elected. He pledged policies aimed at improving the welfare of residents across different social groups, as the contest for Oyo’s top office gradually gathers momentum.