A governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Adewale Kolapo Kareem, has reiterated his strong belief in the internal democratic process of the party, stressing that his aspiration is driven by a sincere desire to advance the future of Oyo State rather than to compete against fellow aspirants.
Responding during a recent interview with the Nigerian Tribune to a question about how he intends to overcome what many describe as “bigwig aspirants” within the party, Dr. Kareem spoke with confidence and clarity about his approach.
“I am a staunch party man and a true progressive,” he said. “If the term ‘bigwig’ refers to individuals who are deeply invested in the success of our party and the progress of our state, then I proudly consider myself part of that commitment.
What truly matters is our shared dedication to strengthening the APC and moving Oyo State forward.”
AKK expressed full confidence that the All Progressives Congress will conduct a meticulous, transparent, and credible process as the party prepares to choose its candidate for the 2027 election.
“I have absolute confidence that our party will provide a level playing field through a free and fair process — whether through consensus or direct primaries.
As democrats within the progressive family, we all believe in a process that reflects the will of our members and positions the party strongly for victory.”
According to him, the primary objective should be to identify the aspirant who possesses the capacity to unite the party and present the most credible path to electoral success.
“The focus must remain on competence, vision, credibility, and capacity. It must also be about who has the ideas, the new initiatives, and the practical roadmap required to move Oyo State to the next level of development.”
He emphasized that leadership in today’s world requires a balance between global exposure and local understanding.
“In a rapidly changing world, governance must combine global insight with local application. My professional experience abroad — particularly in Australia — has allowed me to observe systems where planning, accountability, and efficiency drive development.
The key is to adapt such best practices to our local realities in Oyo State so that governance delivers real results for our people.”
AKK also used the opportunity to highlight the spirit of camaraderie among aspirants within the party.
“All the APC governorship aspirants are my fathers, my brothers, and my friends. They are individuals who have contributed to the growth of our party and the development of our state in various ways.
This is not a contest of hostility but a democratic engagement within a progressive family committed to the future of Oyo State.”
He stressed that his campaign message remains centered on what he describes as “keeping the focus on the ball” — the welfare and future of the people of Oyo State.
“My aspiration is guided by a clear vision I call Realistic Tomorrow — a development approach that prioritizes human capital development, economic growth, infrastructure modernization, and inclusive governance.
Our people deserve leadership that is thoughtful, prepared, and capable of delivering sustainable progress.”
AKK expressed confidence that a fair and transparent process within the party will naturally bring forward the candidate best positioned to lead the APC to victory.
“I strongly believe that when competence, credibility, and vision are the guiding principles, the process will produce the candidate who can unite the party, inspire the electorate, and win the confidence of the people of Oyo State.”
He concluded by reaffirming that his aspiration is driven by a higher purpose beyond personal ambition.
“I am not running against individuals,” AKK said. “I am running for the future of Oyo State — a future where leadership is defined by integrity, innovation, and genuine service to the people.”
