Dr Gbemileke Alagbe, popularly known as Eleniyan, who is laying claim to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship ticket in Oyo State, has picked Chief Niyi Aborisade as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election.
Alagbe, who spoke during the formal presentation of Aborisade in Ibadan, also unveiled plans to prioritise infrastructure, industrial development, agriculture, and security if elected.
He said his faction of the ADC would offer the people of Oyo State a people-centered alternative, promising to pursue policies to create jobs and unlock the state’s economic potential.
According to him, one of the key projects of an ADC administration would be the development of a light rail system linking major cities across the state.
He explained that the project would facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, boost economic activities, and create opportunities for businesses and young people.
Alagbe said the party would also revive industrial hubs across the state as part of measures to tackle unemployment.
He said the group had developed a 14-point agenda focusing on infrastructure, agriculture, security, employment, economic growth and the welfare of residents.
On security, Alagbe promised to secure forests and other ungoverned spaces across the state through modern technology, with the aim of making Oyo one of the safest states in the country.
He also assured residents that an administration led by him would protect their homes and properties from arbitrary demolition and land grabbing.
“We are not going to be agents of land grabbers. Our government will not demolish houses and take people’s land,” he said.
Alagbe described Aborisade as a fair, open and just person, as well as a team builder who would contribute meaningfully to the campaign and administration if the group wi
He also dismissed concerns over alleged divisions within the ADC, saying efforts were being made to reconcile aggrieved members ahead of the 2027 poll.
“ADC is one, and it has come to stay. We are putting everything behind us, and we are going to win,” he said.
The ADC Chairman in Oyo State, Alhaji Yinka Olona, said the governorship primary that produced Alagbe was conducted in accordance with the law and the party’s constitution.
Olona said the party was committed to reconciling its members and strengthening its structure ahead of the election.
He urged party members to work together, expressing confidence that the ADC would take over the state through the ballot in 2027.
Accepting the nomination, Aborisade, a United Kingdom-trained lawyer and human rights advocate, said he accepted the responsibility to contribute to what he described as a new political direction for Oyo State.
He said the decision was not motivated by personal ambition but by a desire to serve the people and contribute to the development of the state.
“This is not about personal ambition. It is about the people. It is about the future of Oyo State. It is about building a government that will respect the dignity, freedom, and aspirations of every citizen,” Aborisade said.
He described the ADC ticket as a partnership built on courage, competence, integrity and commitment to public service.
Aborisade pledged that an administration led by the team would create opportunities for young people, support farmers and traders, strengthen education and healthcare, improve infrastructure, protect lives and property, and create a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
The running mate also urged residents, particularly young people, not to allow political intimidation or temporary financial inducements to determine their choice at the polls.
He said the 2027 election would provide the people with an opportunity to choose the kind of leadership they wanted for Oyo State.
Aborisade urged voters to assess candidates based on competence, integrity, accountability, and their capacity to deliver development.
He added that the group would take its message of freedom, hope and positive change to communities across the state as the campaign gathers momentum.
“No power can enslave us. No money can buy our conscience. No intimidation can stop our march. We were born free, and we will die free,” he said.
The State Publicity Secretary of the party, Hon. Adebimpe Adelowo, and other party leaders attended the presentation.
