The Gubernatorial campaign flag-off of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Oyo State on Saturday reportedly witnessed a disappointing turnout, despite efforts by the party leadership to mobilise supporters from all 33 local government areas of the state.
The rally, held at Durbar Stadium in Oyo Town, was organised to formally launch the 2027 governorship campaign of the party’s candidate, Bimbo Adekanmbi, alongside other candidates seeking elective positions in the state.
However, the crowd at the venue appeared to fall short of the expectations generated by the party’s pre-event mobilisation, raising questions about its grassroots appeal and ability to attract widespread support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ahead of the event, the party’s campaign Director-General, Dr Nureni Adeniran, had called on members and supporters across the 33 local government areas to turn out in large numbers for the flag-off.
The rally was also expected to benefit from the political presence of Governor Seyi Makinde, whose administration the APM has repeatedly pledged to sustain through its 2027 electoral campaign.
The turnout has consequently drawn attention to the party’s mobilisation capacity, particularly as it seeks to consolidate the political support associated with the outgoing administration and translate it into electoral backing for Adekanmbi.
This publication understands that this development comes amid growing political activities in Oyo State as parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections, with the APM positioning itself as the platform to sustain the policies and projects of the Makinde administration.
