By Adesakin Adefemi
A member of the National Assembly representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Sharafadeen Ali, has paid a courtesy visit to President Bola Tinubu in Lagos State, sparking speculation about his potential candidacy in the 2027 governorship election. The meeting took place on Monday evening at the President’s private residence in Ikoyi, amidst a flurry of high-profile political engagements.
Although details of his discussion with the President were not disclosed, sources close to the senator indicate that Alli is being considered as a consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress for the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State. This has fueled speculation that the meeting was a crucial step in securing the party’s nomination.
The senator’s visit to Tinubu is among a series of high-profile political engagements for the President, who is in Lagos for the Easter break. Photographs of the meeting, which circulated on social media, showed the senator and the President in a warm interaction at the Ikoyi residence, suggesting a cordial relationship between the two.
Alli was accompanied by two other High Chiefs, Bolaji Adewoyin and Kola Babalola, who were also reportedly promoted by the Oyo State Government to crown-wearing Obas in Ibadanland. This has led to speculation that the meeting was also an opportunity for the senator to discuss issues related to the traditional institution in Oyo State.
The meeting is seen as a significant development in the lead-up to the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, with Alli emerging as a potential candidate for the APC. The senator has been actively engaging with stakeholders in the state, and his meeting with Tinubu is believed to be part of his efforts to secure the party’s nomination.
Alli’s bid for the governorship is expected to face stiff competition from other aspirants, but his meeting with Tinubu has given him an edge. The President’s endorsement is seen as crucial in securing the party’s nomination, and Alli’s meeting with him is expected to boost his chances.
The President’s schedule in Lagos has been filled with various political meetings and engagements, and his meeting with Alli is seen as a key part of his Easter break. Tinubu’s visit to Lagos has attracted attention from various political actors, with many using the opportunity to meet with him and discuss their interests.
As the 2027 governorship election draws closer, the APC is expected to announce its candidate soon. Alli’s meeting with Tinubu has put him in pole position, but the outcome is far from certain.
The development has sparked intense interest in Oyo State’s political landscape, with observers keenly watching how Alli’s meeting with Tinubu will influence the APC’s strategy and prospects in the 2027 governorship election.
