In an exclusive phone interview with Ja’misi Newsline, Engr. Oyedele Hakeem Alao (popularly known as Allow Alao), a frontline chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State, spoke passionately about his 2027 governorship ambition. He also explained why he believes President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not only secure a second term but win even bigger in Oyo State.
Below are the excerpts:
Q: With growing threats from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other opposition parties, do you believe President Bola Tinubu can improve on the 449,884 votes he secured in Oyo State during the 2023 presidential election?
Alao:
Absolutely. There is no realistic path for ADC or any opposition coalition to defeat APC either at the national or state level. The ADC, for instance, is made up of politicians whose track records have not inspired confidence among the people. Many of them are disconnected from the daily realities of Nigerians.
Here in Oyo State, APC has undergone a remarkable transformation. Internal disputes have been resolved, the party is now united, and our campaign structure is stronger than ever. With these alignments and grassroots mobilization, I am confident that President Tinubu will not only retain but surpass the 449,884 votes he secured in 2023. The APC is fully prepared to deliver an even stronger mandate for him in 2027.
Q: Why are you convinced that the APC can reclaim Oyo State from the PDP despite Governor Seyi Makinde’s influence?
Alao:
APC today is the most formidable political force in Oyo State. Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration, despite being in power for over six years, has failed to deliver impactful governance. His tenure has been characterized by misplaced priorities, poor management, and neglect of critical sectors, even in a time of severe economic hardship.
Meanwhile, the PDP itself is facing serious internal decline. Its influence is waning, not just in Oyo State but across Nigeria. Many of its members have already defected to APC, and this trend will continue as the elections draw closer.
Now that APC has resolved its internal differences and rebuilt its strength, coupled with growing public dissatisfaction with PDP’s governance, we are better positioned than ever to reclaim Oyo State in 2027.
Q: If APC gives you the gubernatorial ticket in 2027, what qualities set you apart to defeat the ruling PDP?
Alao:
First, I am guided by deep faith in Almighty God and a genuine passion for serving the people, especially the underprivileged. Over the years, I have traveled extensively across Oyo State, engaging with our citizens and understanding their real challenges.
My manifesto is built on key pillars: education, healthcare, agriculture, security, youth empowerment, and economic revitalization. These sectors are interconnected, and my approach will ensure inclusive, practical, and transparent governance.
Professionally, I am an engineer with decades of experience in the oil and gas sector, both in Nigeria and internationally. I have managed multi-billion-dollar contracts, overseen major projects, and built a reputation for integrity and excellence. After 18 years with Petroleum Development Oman, I became Vice President of Investment for African Operations at Al Jadeed International Investment. This blend of professional expertise and leadership uniquely equips me to deliver transformative governance in Oyo State.
Politically, I am no stranger to the terrain. I was the Alliance for Democracy (AD) gubernatorial candidate in 2019 and an APC gubernatorial aspirant in 2023. With the support of APC leadership, youths, and women across the state, I am confident that I will defeat the PDP in 2027 and restore Oyo State’s pacesetter glory.
Q: What is your message to APC members and the people of Oyo State ahead of 2027?
Alao:
My message is simple: unity is our strength. We must remain focused and stand firmly behind APC and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his second term.
For Oyo State, 2027 is a year of restoration. Together, we will rebuild our state, create jobs, invest in infrastructure, empower our youths, and deliver real progress. By God’s grace, I am ready to lead this transformation and return Oyo State to its rightful place as the pacesetter state.
