A source familiar with the recent meeting of Senator Fatai Buhari’s (BAF) political team in Ogbomoso has dismissed reports by some online media platforms that the senator endorsed the governorship ticket of Senator Sharafadeen Alli and his reported running mate, Soji.
Speaking exclusively to BowaMedia.com on condition of anonymity, the source disclosed that Senator Buhari made no endorsement of any governorship candidate at the meeting, stressing that his declared commitment was to work for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to the source, the senator made it clear that any APC governorship candidate seeking the support of his political structure must first consult with the team and convince its members at a proposed larger BAF meeting scheduled to hold in Iseyin.
The source further alleged that Soji, who reportedly joined the Ogbomoso meeting towards its conclusion, used his opportunity to address the gathering to make campaign-related remarks and thank Senator Buhari for an endorsement that, according to the source, never happened.
“He told the gathering that nobody could dictate to him or punish him for whatever political decision he might take. He also made it clear that candidates seeking his team’s support must come forward for consultation. If we say NO, nothing anybody can do,” the source quoted the senator as saying.
The source maintained that the Ogbomoso meeting ended without any decision on the Oyo governorship race, insisting that reports suggesting an endorsement of the Sharafa Alli–Soji ticket were misleading and did not reflect what transpired.
While reaffirming the BAF team’s commitment to President Tinubu’s re-election, the source stressed that Senator Buhari’s position on the Oyo governorship candidates remains open pending further consultations.
