Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo state have sent a clear message to the candidates of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and those of other political parties in the forthcoming local government council election: “Be prepared for heavy defeat”.
The stakeholders, comprising notable leaders, chieftains, and members from across the 33 local government councils in the state, emphasised their commitment to “rescue the third tier of government from total collapse.”
The stakeholders expressed this sentiment unanimously at a meeting held yesterday at the Oke-Ado State Secretariat of the Oyo APC.
The meeting, convened by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, focused on strategising how APC candidates could secure victory in the poll scheduled for April 27, 2024.
In his opening address, Alhaji Tajudeen Olanite, standing in for Chairman Barrister Isaac Omodewu, stressed that the party’s participation in the council poll demonstrated its dedication to democracy, the rule of law, and good governance. He emphasised the party’s determination to change the narrative of electoral manipulation and ensure fair outcomes for its candidates.
Chief Adebayo Adelabu, the party’s gubernatorial candidate in the 2019 general election and the current Minister of Power, urged all party faithful to exert extra effort for the success of APC chairmanship and councilorship candidates.
Adelabu acknowledged the challenges of local government elections, especially for an opposition party, but expressed confidence that with unity, commitment, and dedication, victory was attainable.
The minister pledged his full support to all APC candidates across the state’s 33 LGAs and 351 Wards, announcing immediate cash assistance and mobilisation efforts. He noted the importance of progressive unity and collaboration among party members to achieve victory.
Addressing the challenges in the power sector, Adelabu assured Nigerians of the Ministry’s relentless efforts to stabilise power supply nationwide, despite decades-long issues. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges effectively.
Alh. Abu Gbadamosi, speaking on behalf of all party leaders present, hailed Adelabu’s support for the party and its candidates as a morale boost. He urged continued collaboration to advance the party’s agenda and ensure peace and harmony, looking forward to the 2027 general election when the party aims to reclaim power in the state.
Notable party dignitaries in attendance included Engr. Dayo Lawal, Alh. Mufutau Adisa (Gbayawu), Alh. Kamorudeen Ajisafe, Chief Francis Babalola, Chief C. A Ajibade, Alh. Bello Oladeji (BAO), Hon. Adeyemi Adekola, Hon. Mojeed Olaoya, Alhaja Tinuade Adigun, Hon. Joshua Oyebamiji, Hon. Tunde Oloyede, Alhaji Isiaka Alimi, Prince Ayodeji Abass-Alesinloye, Alh. Wale Sanusi, among others.
