The Return of Adelabu Penlemesi 2027 group unequivocally rejects and condemns the false narrative being peddled by a few disgruntled aspirants under the so-called United Ibadan North Federal Constituency Aspirants Forum. The recent publication accusing the Honourable Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, of orchestrating the imposition of a candidate in the upcoming bye-election is not only malicious but also entirely unfounded.
Let it be stated clearly and for the record: Chief Adelabu has no hand whatsoever in the internal affairs of the Ibadan North APC structure or the processes leading up to the bye-election. As a serving Federal Minister whose responsibilities span across the entire nation, Chief Adelabu is fully focused on addressing the nation’s power challenges under the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Linking him to local candidate selection processes is both dishonest and deliberately distracting.
1. Misplaced Accusations
The allegation that Chief Adelabu imposed any candidate is not only baseless but also a calculated attempt to drag his name into intra-party disputes where he holds no authority. The decision of who emerges as a candidate lies with the party leadership at the state and national levels — not with a Federal Minister whose focus is governance, not politicking.
2. Deliberate Mudslinging
The same individuals accusing Chief Adelabu today were noticeably silent when key internal reconciliation meetings were being held. Instead of embracing party unity, they have chosen to engage in blackmail and press propaganda to cover their lack of grassroots support. Their grievances should be channeled to the appropriate organs of the APC — not through public attacks on respected national figures.
3. Chief Adelabu’s Loyalty to APC
Chief Adelabu remains a committed progressive and a loyal stakeholder of the APC. It is worth reminding the public that his temporary exit from the party in 2023 was a response to systemic marginalization — a situation he has since reconciled after rejoining the party in good faith and with the blessings of national leaders. Accusing him of the same undemocratic tendencies that previously affected him is the height of irony and hypocrisy.
4. On the Bye-Election
The bye-election process is a party affair governed by INEC guidelines and the internal mechanisms of the APC. The Minister of Power does not sit on any selection panel nor does he wield any influence over the decision of the party hierarchy in such matters. Those insinuating otherwise are either misinformed or intentionally dishonest.
5. Focus on Unity, Not Division
Now more than ever, Oyo APC needs unity, maturity, and discipline. These constant and baseless accusations only serve to deepen the cracks within the party and weaken our electoral chances. Chief Adelabu has consistently preached reconciliation, inclusivity, and progressive engagement. He should be commended, not vilified.
CONCLUSION
We call on all party members, especially those aggrieved, to retrace their steps and seek redress through proper party channels. The continued media attacks on credible and committed party leaders like Chief Adelabu will do nothing but damage the reputation and electoral strength of the APC in Oyo State.
Let us redirect our energies toward defeating the opposition and delivering dividends of democracy — not tearing ourselves apart with baseless accusations.
Signed,
Prince Omiyale Ademola (Coordinator)
Comr. Toyinbo Ayanwusi (State Secretary)
Return of Adelabu Penlemesi 2027 Group
