The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Thursday presented the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nomination form to its Oyo State governorship candidate, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, and unveiled Adesoji Adedeji as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election.

Adedeji, 46, is an Economics graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and hails from Iwo-Ate in Ogo Oluwa Local Government Area of Oyo State. He is also the younger brother of the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr Zacch Adedeji.

Speaking at the event, Oyo APC Chairman and former Deputy Governor, Moses Adeyemo, urged party members to unite ahead of the election, stressing that only a united party could reclaim power in the state.

“By the grace of God, come May 29, 2027, our governor and deputy governor will be Senator Sharafadeen Alli and Hon. Adesoji Adedeji. I plead with us in the name of the Lord to come together,” he said.

Presenting the INEC nomination form, APC Deputy National Auditor, Gbenga Olayemi, described Alli as the party’s standard-bearer and called on members to rally behind him.

In his acceptance speech, Alli described his emergence as the party’s governorship candidate as a collective victory and pledged to provide inclusive, accountable and transparent leadership if elected.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu, the APC National Working Committee, the state leadership of the party, security agencies and members for their support during the primary election.

The senator also appealed to fellow aspirants and their supporters to close ranks with the party ahead of the election.

“Our people are yearning for leadership that listens, unites and understands their pains. They deserve a government that works for everyone, regardless of religion, ethnicity, social class or geopolitical zone,” he said.

Alli said his administration would prioritise agriculture, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, infrastructure, environmental protection and inclusive economic growth, while aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“I will remain accessible, accountable and a good listener. I will never take the trust of the people for granted. Let us reject division, embrace unity and work together to restore the true Pacesetter glory of Oyo State,” he added.

Accepting his nomination, Adedeji thanked the party leadership for the confidence reposed in him and expressed optimism that the APC would win the 2027 governorship election.

The event was attended by members of the APC State Working Committee, National Assembly and State House of Assembly candidates, as well as party leaders and stakeholders, including Senators Ayo Adeseun, Hosea Agboola and Femi Lanlehin, Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle, Pa Timothy Jolaoso, Asiwaju Yemi Aderibigbe and Alhaji Olayide Abbas.