Ibadan, Nigeria — Former Minister of Power and leading All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has dismissed reports of a planned defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), describing the claim as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Mr. Femi Awogboro, Adelabu said he remains a committed member of the APC and has not considered leaving the party.
“Our attention has been drawn to a baseless and deliberately misleading rumour… alleging that Chief Adebayo Adelabu is planning to defect to the Social Democratic Party (SDP),” the statement read.
“We wish to state categorically and unequivocally that this claim is entirely false… At no time has Chief Adelabu contemplated, initiated, discussed, or authorised any move to the SDP or any other political party.”
Awogboro noted that the APC governorship primary process in Oyo State has not been concluded, stressing that speculation about defection at this stage is unfounded.
He added that Adelabu’s political ambition is not driven by desperation, describing him as a seasoned public servant with a track record of competence and integrity.
“It is insulting and ridiculous to suggest that a politician of Adelabu’s standing would seek relevance through an imaginary political defection,” he said.
The statement further accused those behind the rumour of attempting to gain attention by linking themselves to Adelabu’s rising political profile.
Awogboro urged political actors to focus on issue-based engagement rather than spreading misinformation capable of misleading the public.
He also warned that Adelabu’s legal team is reviewing the matter, with all options open against those responsible for what he described as defamatory claims.
The former minister, the aide added, remains focused on his vision for Oyo State and committed to the ideals and processes of the APC.
