The unity rally across the 14 Federal Constituencies of the APC in Oyo State has revealed both the pretenders and the real contenders among the party’s gubernatorial aspirants as the 2027 general elections draw near. Not minding the ever-tasking journey across the length and breadth of Oyo State, preaching the gospel of President Bola Tinubu’s government, its good works and achievements, with the idea of seeking continuity beyond 2027 and to 2031 respectively, the exercise has provided valuable political insights.
While observing, analysing and even visibly monitoring the rallies, it is evident that the APC is in high spirits and appears well positioned to coast home to victory in 2027. However, this will not come on a platter of gold. Serious work will be required from the party and all stakeholders involved. Many bridges must be crossed—tough ones, indeed. The journey will require a high level of sincerity, integrity, restraint and, as a matter of fact, a towering level of courage from actors at different levels.
One good thing is that the APC needs to reflect on the history of its journey outside government since 2019 up to date. Obviously, the pattern may not be the same, but the outcome has been similar. For the sake of the ongoing unity drive within the party, muting the bitterness of both cycles in the overall interest of the party appears to be the wiser path.
Looking forward to 2027, one clear assignment for the Oyo State APC is to be fairly open and transparent at the level of its primaries. No imposition. No entitlement. No “Maradonic” tendencies. Above all, party discipline must be strictly adhered to. These remain the key antidotes to reclaiming power from the present holder through the ballot. The chances are openly there for the party to explore, only if it truly has the interest of returning to governance in the Pacesetter State, currently celebrating 50 years of its creation.
Just as generally opined, if one attempts to echo the mind of Mr. President—whose interest in the state is arguably considered significant—it is safe to say that President Bola Tinubu is likely to be looking for a record-holding election winner, someone who will make the party’s return to power in 2027 easier and more convenient for all stakeholders. Many factors are on the table, but above all, an acceptable candidate with a proven electoral record is required on the party’s ballot.
Again, looking inwardly at the array of aspirants the party is parading at the moment, it will indeed be a difficult task to single out one without acknowledging the strengths of others. Many eminently qualify to lead Oyo State to a more productive and effective future. Experiences, qualifications, exposures, leadership and administrative capacity are not in short supply within the party—a rare advantage which the opposition arguably lacks.
Beyond these, however, elections remain a delicate exercise. Though seemingly simple, they can be risky and slippery if all necessary parameters are not carefully considered. This is where antecedents matter. Electorates are often quick to demand verifiable records of achievement in previous public offices. Failure to present a convincing and successful scorecard can easily result in a technical knockout at the polls.
It is within this context that the three-term Senator, former member of the House of Representatives and former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Senator AbdulFatai Omotayo Buhari, PhD, frequently comes up in discussions as a strong contender for the APC gubernatorial ticket in Oyo State.
Fondly known as BAF, he is not regarded as one of the regular lawmakers often seen in the political space. His name continues to resonate among many people in Oyo State, largely due to his performance record and history of electoral victories in the.13 local governments in Oyo North Senatorial District of the Pacesetter State. These victories are commonly attributed to his legislative output and perceived commitment to constituency development.
From education to health, security, agriculture, youth development, employment and empowerment, trade and commerce, and his relatively simple lifestyle as an administrator and public office holder, his supporters often point to these areas as evidence of practical governance experience. He is believed not only to be aspiring to the number one office in the state but also to be seeking to expand his impact across Oyo State for the broader benefit of its people.
BAF has consistently maintained that government should be about the people, and this philosophy, according to observers, has reflected in his legislative journey. In a period when many citizens desire inclusive governance and measurable development, Oyo State may indeed benefit from leadership that combines experience with people-oriented policies and a structured approach to governance capable of driving growth and development across the state. Sen. AbdulFatai Omotayo Buhari PhD is the perfect fit for APC in their journey to return to the government house of Oyo State.
Yusuf Akinloye writes from Ibadan, Oyo State of Nigeria
