The former Minister of Power and governorship hopeful in Oyo State for the 2027 election, Adebayo Adelabu, on Tuesday, made it clear that he is not connected to the defection of his former aide, Ajiboye Akande. Akande switched from the APC to the Allied Peoples Movement during a rally in Ibadan on Monday.
Adelabu issued a statement through his media office in Ibadan. He said Akande is no longer his Personal Assistant and has no official or political ties with him anymore.
He explained that their working relationship ended due to serious disagreements over their political beliefs, especially after Akande chose a different political path.
The PUNCH reported that many APC supporters from all 33 local government areas in Oyo State joined the APM at the Boye Nation/JAF Movement Mega Concert led by Akande. This event took place at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Adelabu emphasized that Akande's defection, rally, statements, and political actions are personal to him. He stressed that Akande can no longer speak for him or represent his views.
Adelabu stated, “I remain a member of the APC and have no intention of leaving the party. My disagreement with aspects of the Oyo governorship nomination process is about the process and the need for transparency and legitimacy, and not an excuse to abandon the party.
“I will not betray President Bola Tinubu, whom I regard as my political mentor and benefactor, or abandon the party that provided me the opportunity to serve.
“So, I am using this period to distance myself from yesterday’s defection of my former aide, Akande, from the APC to the APM during a rally held in Ibadan.”
He pointed out that his support for the President is based on more than just personal loyalty. He believes in due process and that the President came into power through a properly organized primary election.
Adelabu added that all he seeks is to ensure transparency, proper documentation, and legitimacy in the Oyo governorship primary election.
“Let the results of the exercise be properly released, supported by the relevant signed documents and other verifiable evidence. That, in my view, is the proper foundation for acceptance and collective support.
“My governorship ambition has never been a do-or-die affair. My interest has always been about the opportunity to serve Oyo.
“Besides, I neither idle nor depend on political office for my livelihood. Since leaving public office, I have remained fully engaged in my real estate, hospitality, farming, and financial securities businesses.
“I therefore have no need to jump from one political party to another simply to remain relevant,” he added.
The former minister insisted that he is still firmly in the APC and has neither defected nor authorized anyone to defect on his behalf.
He concluded by saying, “the political activities of Akande are his personal decision and have no connection whatsoever with me.”
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