A retired military officer and gubernatorial hopeful under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Gbenga Adegbola, has declared his intention to contest for the governorship of Oyo State in 2027, stating that he is the most qualified to lead the state based on his vast experience in security and governance.
Speaking during a series of familiarisation visits in Ibadan, including to the Oyo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Oyo State Police Command, the Department of State Services (DSS), and APC Chieftain, Barr. Lowo Obisesan, Adegbola emphasized that his background as a retired Colonel in the Nigerian Army places him in a strong position to tackle insecurity in the state.
According to him, “Crime rate will reduce to the barest minimum if I become the Oyo State governor. You know I’m a security expert. I have a Master’s Degree in Conflict and Crisis Management and a Master of Arts in Security and Strategy from the Nigerian Defence Academy. I will put all of that into practice once I’m in power, by the special grace of God.”
Adegbola, who hails from Saki, reiterated that Oyo State remains united and peaceful, and it is time for other zones in the state to produce the next governor. He highlighted the strategic role of the NSCDC in maintaining peace, describing the outfit as the first point of contact in crisis situations.
“You are close to the civil populace and the first respondent to crisis. You are capable of managing conflict, and your role cannot be overemphasized. I will tackle your problems and meet your needs if elected governor,” Adegbola assured while addressing the NSCDC leadership.
In his response, the Oyo NSCDC Commandant, Augustine Padonu, reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to its constitutional mandate, stating that the organization remains dedicated to protecting critical national assets and maintaining security across all sectors.
Also speaking, APC Chieftain Barr. Lowo Obisesan expressed confidence in Adegbola’s candidacy, describing him as a competent and credible leader with the requisite experience and pedigree to govern Oyo State effectively.
The consultation visits mark the beginning of Dr. Adegbola’s political outreach as he prepares for the 2027 gubernatorial race.
