The Allied Peoples Movement has criticised Senator Sharafadeen Alli over his recent roadside fried-fish outing, describing it as political theatrics while promoting its Oyo State governorship candidate, Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi, as a more consistent grassroots politician.
The criticism comes as political parties and prospective candidates intensify activities ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.
In a statement, the APM argued that genuine grassroots engagement should be demonstrated through sustained interaction with residents rather than public appearances designed to attract attention.
The party alleged that Alli’s roadside outing was intended to project humility for political purposes, insisting that voters could distinguish between authentic engagement and activities organised to improve a politician’s public image.
“Leadership is not a costume worn when cameras are present. It is a consistent demonstration of sincerity, service, and connection with the people,” the statement said.
The APM maintained that political leadership should be judged by a candidate’s record of service, engagement with communities and ability to present practical solutions to residents’ concerns.
It also accused Alli of associating with wealthy political supporters who allegedly move around the state offering money to attract public backing.
However, the statement did not provide specific evidence to substantiate the allegation of cash inducement. Alli’s response was not included in the statement.
APM promotes Adekanmbi’s grassroots approach
The party contrasted its criticism of Alli with its portrayal of Adekanmbi as a candidate committed to community engagement and direct interaction with residents.
According to the APM, Adekanmbi has been meeting communities, listening to their concerns and building relationships as part of his political activities.
The party argued that grassroots politics should be assessed through consistency and a candidate’s willingness to understand local challenges, rather than isolated public appearances.
The APM did not provide independent evidence establishing the extent of Adekanmbi’s community engagements or the level of public support for his candidacy.
It also challenged Alli to explain his policy priorities and outline how he intends to address the challenges confronting Oyo State.
The party said voters deserved clear proposals on governance and development, arguing that campaigns should focus on policies and service delivery rather than publicity-driven activities.
Oyo 2027 race gathers momentum
The exchange highlights the political messaging emerging ahead of the 2027 Oyo governorship election, as parties seek to distinguish their candidates through competing claims about credibility, accessibility and leadership.
For the APM, the dispute provides an opportunity to present Adekanmbi as an alternative to established political figures. Its criticism of Alli also raises questions about whether public displays of accessibility reflect sustained engagement with communities.
However, the party’s characterisation of the senator’s outing remains its own political assessment. The statement does not independently establish Alli’s motives or demonstrate that his appearance was staged for electoral advantage.
Similarly, the APM’s claims about Adekanmbi’s grassroots activities require independent verification before they can be assessed as evidence of broader public support.
The statement concluded with the party expressing confidence in Adekanmbi’s candidacy and urging voters to assess aspirants based on their policy proposals, commitment to public service and plans for the state’s development.
Alli’s response to the allegations was not included in the statement.
As political activities build towards 2027, voters will be watching not only candidates’ public appearances but also the substance of their policy proposals, records of service and ability to explain how they intend to address Oyo State’s development priorities.
