A support group, BSA Voice of Reason, has faulted a petition seeking the disqualification of Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Ali from the 2027 governorship race in Oyo State, insisting that the lawmaker remains eligible to contest.
The group through statement by Elder David Oluokun was reacting to a petition reportedly submitted by Barrister Oluwole Olatunde on behalf of a group identified as Oyo APC Concerned Youths. The petition alleged that Senator Alli had become an Oba under the amended Olubadan Chieftaincy Law and should therefore be disqualified from contesting elections unless he resigns his political office.
Responding in a statement, BSA Voice of Reason described the petition as “dead on arrival,” arguing that the claims were based on a misunderstanding of the law.
“Contrary to the erroneous position of these fifth columnists, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli has not been elevated to a crown-wearing Oba,” the group stated.
The group maintained that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act are the relevant legal instruments guiding elections and qualifications for public office.
“The Electoral Act is very clear and explicit about the reasons why a candidate for election as governor may be disqualified. Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli does not offend any of the provisions of the Electoral Act and the Constitution that would warrant his disqualification,” the statement added.
BSA Voice of Reason also expressed confidence in the party’s Screening Committee, saying its members were “highly respected, experienced and learned personalities” capable of handling the petition objectively.
The group further alleged that the petition could be politically motivated, suggesting that opposition forces or disgruntled elements within the party might be behind the move due to Alii’s rising political profile.
“We want to assure the good people of Oyo State that he will appear before the Screening Committee and come out unscathed,” the group said.
It added that Sharafadeen Abiodun Ali, being both a lawyer and experienced politician, understood the legal and political implications surrounding the matter and remained focused on his governorship ambition.