The Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) has officially named Adebisi Olusoji, a US-based entrepreneur from Osun State, as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections. This decision was made during a substitution primary held at the party's secretariat in Osogbo, where delegates affirmed his candidacy through a voice vote.

Olusoji's selection follows the withdrawal of the party's previous candidate, Barrister Samuel Memeh. The Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Olalekan Fabayo, emphasized that the substitution primary was conducted in accordance with the Electoral Act 2026, fulfilling a constitutional requirement to fill the vacancy left by Memeh's exit. Fabayo addressed party members and officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), highlighting the importance of the process.

In a statement, Dr. Tosin Odeyemi, the Osun State Chairman of the DLA, expressed that Olusoji's emergence signifies the party's commitment to providing Nigerians with a fresh political alternative. He argued that the nation needs to move beyond the traditional leadership styles associated with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Odeyemi stated, "The time has come for a new beginning capable of repositioning Nigeria among nations."

The affirmation of Olusoji is seen as a critical step for the DLA as it seeks to expand its political influence ahead of the 2027 elections. The party aims to build its political structure around a clear vision and credible leadership, with a focus on presenting candidates who can meet the expectations of the Nigerian populace.

Odeyemi also indicated that Olusoji's candidacy would serve as a launchpad for the party's broader political agenda in Osun State, particularly looking ahead to 2030. He assured that the DLA would actively monitor and critique the actions of the state government, led by Governor Ademola Adeleke, particularly those policies deemed detrimental to the interests of the people. "DLA is set to put the ruling party on their toes. We will constructively criticize whatever programme we feel will not serve the best interest of Osun people," he stated.

As the DLA prepares for the upcoming elections, Olusoji's affirmation marks a significant moment in the party's efforts to offer an alternative to the current political landscape in Nigeria.