Olaniyi Olaigbe, the Action Alliance (AA) governorship candidate for Oyo State, has dismissed rumours suggesting that he has stepped down from the 2027 governorship race.
The candidate clarified his position following widespread speculation that he had withdrawn his interest in contesting the upcoming election. Olaigbe categorised the reports as baseless and maintained that his political objectives remain unchanged as the party prepares for the next electoral cycle.
Addressing the claims, the candidate spoke on rumours that he had stepped down from the 2027 Oyo governorship race, stating that he remains fully committed to his candidacy under the Action Alliance banner.
Political positioning in Oyo State
The denial comes amidst intensifying political activity in Oyo State, as various stakeholders begin to map out strategies for the 2027 polls. The Action Alliance has been positioning itself as a significant alternative to the dominant political parties in the state, and Olaigbe’s continued candidacy is central to the party’s strategy.
In the Nigerian political landscape, rumours of candidates withdrawing or shifting allegiances often emerge during the pre-election period. These claims frequently serve to test party cohesion or to create uncertainty among the electorate. Olaigbe’s response aims to stabilise his supporters and clarify the party’s stance before formal campaigning begins in earnest.
While the 2027 elections are still some time away, the groundwork for governorship contests in Oyo State is already being laid. The political atmosphere is expected to become increasingly competitive as the Action Alliance and other major parties, including the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC), vie for control of the state government.
Olaigbe’s refusal to step down indicates that the Action Alliance intends to maintain its presence in the Oyo State governorship contest, challenging the established political order. The party’s next steps will involve strengthening its grassroots structure to support his candidacy as the election approaches.
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