As part of my wide-ranging consultations and grassroots engagement ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, I embarked on an extensive political, traditional, and religious engagement across Ibarapa Land, reaffirming my commitment to inclusive leadership, moral governance, and sustainable development under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
 
Meeting with G9, G64 and Ibarapa APC Stakeholders
During my engagement with members of the G9, G64, and critical APC stakeholders across Ibarapa Land, I formally declared my intention to contest for the office of Governor of Oyo State under the APC. At the meeting, I presented my book, Our Realistic Tomorrow: A Blueprint of Leadership and Progress for Oyo State, which encapsulates my vision, policy direction, and practical roadmap for repositioning Oyo State through purposeful leadership, inclusive governance, and sustainable development.
 
I explained that my aspiration is anchored on the urgent need to rescue Oyo State from stagnation and restore hope through people-centred policies focused on economic empowerment, security, quality education, healthcare delivery, and infrastructural renewal across all zones of the state, including Ibarapa Land. I sought the counsel, support, and partnership of party leaders and assured them that my leadership philosophy prioritises grassroots development, party unity, and collective ownership of governance.
 
The stakeholders received me warmly, commended the clarity of my vision, and encouraged sustained engagement with party structures and communities as the journey to 2027 continues.
 
Strengthening the APC: Reception of MC Swagger into the Party
In further demonstration of the growing strength and inclusiveness of the APC in Ibarapa Land, party stakeholders and I officially welcomed renowned media personality and youth mobiliser, MC Swagger, Dr. Opeyemi Ayanride (ANBROAD Governor), following his defection from the PDP.
 
I described his decision as strategic and timely, noting that his influence among youths, creatives, and professionals will significantly strengthen the APC’s mobilisation drive. His entry reflects the party’s renewed resolve to expand its reach, energise the youth base, and consolidate its grassroots presence across Ibarapa Land and Oyo State at large. Dr. Ayanride, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and pledged his commitment to advancing the APC’s progressive ideals.
 
 
Courtesy Visit to the Eleruwa of Eruwa
As part of my engagement with traditional institutions, I paid a courtesy visit to the Eleruwa of Eruwa, where I presented Our Realistic Tomorrow and reaffirmed my respect for culture, history, and grassroots realities. I shared insights from my leadership and governance experiences within Nigeria and internationally, including my work as a School Leader with the New South Wales Department of Education in Australia.
 
I emphasized that leadership requires humility, reflection, and continuous learning, noting that learning from experience is not an admission of failure, but an addition to wisdom. At the palace, I clearly declared my intention to run for governor, stressing that my aspiration is driven by sincere service rather than personal ambition. The Eleruwa commended the clarity of my vision and urged political leaders to prioritise unity, peace, and the welfare of the people.
 
Engagement with the League of Imams and Alfas
I also paid a courtesy visit to the League of Imams and Alfas in Ibarapa Land, seeking prayers, moral guidance, and constructive engagement. During the visit, I presented Our Realistic Tomorrow and reaffirmed my belief that governance must be anchored on God-consciousness, justice, compassion, and accountability.
 
Quoting from the Holy Qur’an and drawing from the Hadith, I explained that my entry into politics is rooted in the desire to serve humanity and govern with the fear of God. I assured that all residents of Oyo State, irrespective of religion or background, will benefit from a fair, sincere, and inclusive government. The religious leaders welcomed me warmly and prayed for peace, unity, and people-focused leadership.
 
 
Visit to Christian Association and C & S Church Leaders
In the same spirit of interfaith engagement, I met with leaders of the Christian Association and Cherubim & Seraphim (C & S) churches in Ibarapa Land. I presented my book and reiterated that leadership anchored on strong moral values and the fear of God remains the foundation for sustainable development.
 
Quoting from the Holy Bible, I stated that my aspiration is driven by service, integrity, and justice. I assured the Christian community that my leadership vision guarantees fairness, inclusiveness, and equal opportunities for all. Church leaders commended the depth of my vision and urged continued commitment to peace, unity, and God-honouring governance.
 
 
Conclusion
These engagements across political, traditional, and religious institutions underscore my consultative leadership style and unwavering commitment to building bridges across communities, faiths, and party structures. I remain deeply grateful for the warm reception, constructive dialogue, and encouragement received across Ibarapa Land.
 
With unity, sincerity, and collective resolve, I am confident that together we can build a realistic tomorrow—a progressive, fair, peaceful, and prosperous Oyo State for all.
 
~ Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK)
Oyo State APC Gubernatorial Aspirant
APC… PROGRESS!
Oyo 2027
AKK 2027
Governor 2027
AKK! Aseyori ni tiwa
AKK!! Ajọṣe, Ajoje
AKK!!! A Task That Must Be Done
Tuesday, January 20, 2026.