Oyo 2027: Senator Buhari Joins Guber Race, Says Only Internal Democracy Can Save APC

​The Senator representing Oyo North Senatorial District, Dr. Abdulfatai Buhari, has officially entered the 2027 governorship race, with a stern warning to the All Progressives Congress (APC) that the party’s survival and success depend entirely on its commitment to internal democracy.

​Speaking at a strategic engagement with party stakeholders, the three-term lawmaker insisted that the APC must move away from the culture of imposition and “anointed” candidates if it intends to reclaim the Agodi Government House. Buhari emphasized that while the party is currently a formidable opposition in the state, its biggest threat remains the potential for internal friction caused by a lack of transparency in the primary process.

​“We must allow the people to choose who leads them. That is the only way to build a party that is resilient and unified,” Buhari stated. He argued that the strength of any political organization lies in the satisfaction of its grassroots members, noting that when the selection process is fair, every member feels a sense of ownership in the eventual victory.

​The Senator, who has held key legislative roles including Chairman of the Senate Committee on Land Transport, pointed to his track record of service as evidence of his readiness for the state’s top job. He maintained that his vision for Oyo State is centered on sustainable development, economic diversification, and institutional reform, but added that such a vision can only be realized if the party remains a united front.

​Drawing from historical political shifts in the state, Buhari warned that whenever the APC or its predecessors ignored the call for a level playing field, the consequences were felt at the general polls. He urged the party leadership to act as neutral umpires, ensuring that the primary election becomes a showcase of the party’s democratic values rather than a source of division.

​The formal declaration has added fresh momentum to the governorship race, with Buhari being widely regarded as a heavyweight contender due to his extensive network across the state’s five zones. Supporters at the event hailed his entry as a “game-changer,” citing his legislative experience and consistency as vital assets that the APC needs to return to power in 2027.

​As the political atmosphere in Oyo State continues to heat up, Buhari’s stance on internal democracy has set a clear benchmark for the party’s upcoming internal elections, challenging other aspirants and leaders to prioritize equity and justice over political expediency.