By Kunle Adesiyan
The recent attempts by some individuals to create uncertainty around the eligibility of Distinguished Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli to contest the 2027 governorship election are not for debate because it is fundamental matters of constitutional interpretation and judicial determination. Under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the qualifications and disqualifications for the office of governor are expressly stated, and no state law, gazette, administrative directive, or chieftaincy declaration can validly introduce additional conditions that are inconsistent with the Constitution.
The right to participate in a democratic process, including the right to vote and be voted for, remains a fundamental constitutional right that cannot be casually extinguished by political conjecture, selective interpretations of state regulations, or orchestrated attempts to deny the people of Oyo State the opportunity to choose their preferred leader.
It is equally important to recall that Distinguished Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli has consistently demonstrated profound respect for the revered Olubadan institution and the rich cultural heritage of Ibadanland. This was evident when he previously declined elevation within the Olubadan succession line in deference to his political responsibilities and personal convictions.
Therefore, the current narrative suggesting that the unfortunate passing of a high chief and the possibility of succession to the position of Ekerin Balogun automatically disqualifies him from partisan politics is both legally contestable and constitutionally questionable. More importantly, progression within the Olubadan succession hierarchy should not necessarily compel the immediate assumption of a beaded crown or amount to automatic withdrawal from public service.
Indeed, there are clear precedents within the institution itself. His Imperial Majesty, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who is now the Olubadan of Ibadanland, remained a High Chief and only assumed the beaded crown when he is about ascending to the throne as Olubadan. This demonstrates that movement within the traditional line of succession does not, in itself, amount to becoming a crowned Oba. Senator Sharafadeen Alli is therefore not desecrating the Olubadan institution; rather, he is honourably serving the people of Oyo State at this critical period in the state’s history. His commitment to public service and the development of Oyo State does not diminish his respect for the traditional institution of Ibadanland. The time will come, in accordance with tradition and due process, when he will serve Ibadanland in another capacity. However, that is a matter for another day.
Today, the focus should remain on competence, vision, experience, and the capacity to provide purposeful leadership for Oyo State. Distinguished Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli remains one of the most experienced, accessible, and grassroots-oriented leaders in the state. We cannot afford to deprive ourselves of the value, leadership, and progressive ideals he brings to the table. His decades of public service, unfiltered commitment to the welfare of the people, and aged preparation for higher responsibilities continue to inspire confidence among party faithful, youths, women, and the broader electorate. Until a court of competent jurisdiction decides otherwise, He remains constitutionally qualified to seek the mandate of the people.
The people of Oyo State deserve the opportunity to freely choose the leader they believe can best advance the state’s progress and prosperity. We remain confident that Distinguished Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli will not only emerge as the All Progressives Congress gubernatorial candidate, but by the grace of God and the collective will of the people, he will become the Executive Governor of Oyo State in 2027.
