Oyo 2027: I’ve not defected to SDP — Adelabu

The immediate past Minister of Power and All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has denied defecting to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Adelabu said in a statement on Wednesday that the rumour was not only baseless but also a “deliberately misleading attempt to tarnish” his reputation.

His media aide, Femi Awogboro, speaking on Adelabu’s behalf, said: “At no time has Chief Adelabu contemplated, initiated, discussed, or authorised any move to the SDP or any other political party. The claim is entirely false, unfounded, and exists only in the imagination of its promoters.”

According to him, the APC governorship primary process had not been concluded and no official result had been declared.

“It is important to note that the APC governorship primary process has not even been concluded, and no result has been officially declared. Consequently, the fabrication of stories about a purported defection lacks any factual basis whatsoever and can only be viewed as a desperate attempt to attract public attention by exploiting the name and stature of Chief Adelabu,” he stated.

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He added that Adelabu remained a committed and loyal member of the APC, stressing that no amount of falsehood, propaganda, wishful thinking, or political mischief could alter that reality.

“More importantly, Chief Adelabu’s political aspiration has never been driven by desperation, nor has it ever been a do-or-die venture. Throughout his distinguished career, he has earned and occupied several strategic positions in both the public and private sectors through competence, diligence, integrity, and proven capacity.

“He has had his fair and reasonable share of top government appointments and leadership responsibilities, and therefore has no reason whatsoever to engage in the kind of political desperation being falsely attributed to him.

“It is therefore both insulting and ridiculous to suggest that a personality of Chief Adelabu’s standing would be seeking relevance through a hurried and imaginary political defection. Such a claim not only insults his person but also betrays a poor understanding of the political realities in Oyo State.

“We are compelled to state that those promoting this false narrative should focus on building their own political profile and presenting their credentials to the electorate rather than attempting to ride on the popularity, acceptance, and growing momentum of Chief Adelabu’s aspiration. Political relevance cannot be manufactured through association with another person’s name.

“Indeed, if the principal behind the circulation of these rumours can attain even half of Chief Adelabu’s record of accomplishments in both public service and private enterprise, he should consider it worthy of thanksgiving. Chief Adelabu’s contributions and achievements are matters of public record and have been earned through years of hard work, professional excellence, and dedicated service.

“Rather than dragging the name of an accomplished individual through the mud in pursuit of cheap publicity, those involved should demonstrate the moral uprightness, diligence, discipline, and credibility expected of persons seeking public office. Oyo State deserves issue-based politics, not propaganda, distractions, and the deliberate spread of falsehood.

“The attempt to link Chief Adelabu with a non-existent defection agenda is therefore highly disrespectful and should be condemned by all well-meaning members of the public. It is nothing more than a calculated effort to generate media attention and create an artificial political trend where none exists.

“We hereby advise those responsible for originating, sponsoring, and disseminating this false narrative to immediately retract the publication and tender an unreserved apology. They should further desist from any attempt to exploit Chief Adelabu’s name, reputation, and political goodwill for personal or partisan advantage.

“Be advised that our legal team is currently reviewing the matter, and all legal options remain available. Should this falsehood continue to be circulated or amplified, appropriate legal action will be taken against all those found responsible for publishing, disseminating, or promoting these defamatory claims.

“Chief Adelabu remains focused on his vision for Oyo State, committed to the ideals and processes of the APC, and determined to continue engaging the people on issues that matter to their future. He will not be distracted by cheap publicity stunts, political opportunism, or attention-seeking fabrications.”