Unity and Commitment Mark Ogun West APC’s Governorship Ambitions
Leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun West Senatorial District have taken a significant step towards political cohesion. On Sunday, they declared an end to internal divisions within the party and the zone, unanimously endorsing Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, commonly known as Yayi, as the party’s candidate for the 2027 Ogun governorship election.
The declaration was made during a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held in Ilaro, Ogun State. The event brought together party leaders, elected officials, and political actors from across the district. Attendees pledged unity and collective commitment to the governorship ambition, emphasizing the importance of working together to achieve success.
Notable attendees at the event included the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Minister of State for Health, Kunle Salako, members of the House of Representatives led by Hon. Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade, Gboyega Isiaka, and Hon. Tunji Akinosi. Other prominent figures present were Senator Akin Odunsi; Senator Iyabo Anisulowo; former Deputy Governor, Alhaja Makanjuola Badru; Senator Gbolahan Dada; Senator Tolu Odebiyi; Hon. Adekunle Akinlade; Deputy Speaker, Hon. Lateefat Alabi; and the Chief of Staff to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Toyin Taiwo, among others.
Key Speeches and Messages
During the event, Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele described the meeting as a significant moment for Ogun West. She commended the roles played by President Bola Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun in achieving consensus. “Today is a significant day for Ogun West,” she said. “I want to express gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the pilot of our ship, Governor Dapo Abiodun, for the roles they played to get us here.”
She highlighted the challenges faced by Ogun West and expressed hope that Senator Adeola would be wise and effective in his role. “As a sitting government, I have seen how disadvantaged Ogun West has been. It is my prayer that God will give Senator Adeola the wisdom to deliver in this role. This project is my project.”
The deputy governor also urged Adeola to be inclusive, particularly of women, adding that she was optimistic about victory in 2027. “I call on you not to ignore the women as you build your team and shape your government. I congratulate our brothers and sisters from Ogun West, and I pray that Almighty Allah grants the APC victory in all elective positions, from the President to the House of Assembly in the 2027 general elections.”
Emphasizing Unity and Collective Effort
The Minister of State for Health, Kunle Salako, echoed the importance of unity. He stated that the long-standing aspiration of Ogun West to produce a governor could only be realized through sustained unity. “For years, Ogun West has aspired to lead the state. Now that the opportunity has come, we must remain united and ensure no one is left behind,” he said.
Former governorship aspirant, Hon. Abiodun Akinlade, noted that internal disagreements within the party had been resolved, describing the meeting as a renewed moment of purpose. “No matter what has been said before now, we are no longer divided. This is a meeting of purpose. We are now one and ready to move forward together,” he said.
Ogun West APC Chairman, Alhaji Azeez Ekwueme, commended the zoning arrangement of the governorship ticket to the district and urged members to close ranks behind the consensus candidate. Hon. Abdulkabir Adekunle Akinlade emphasized that while consensus was important, victory at the polls remained the ultimate goal. “It is not enough to agree. We must work to win. Every member must play a role in ensuring that our party emerges victorious,” he said.
A Call for Collective Action
Gboyega Isiaka called on party members to put aside personal interests and work collectively for the success of the party in 2027. Adeola, in his remarks, described the development as a turning point for Ogun West. “I cannot imagine that we are here today as one indivisible family to affirm that it is Ogun West’s time. From today, we are one big family speaking with one voice. No one will be sidelined. We are together in this journey.”
He acknowledged the roles played by Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun, as well as former governors Olusegun Osoba, Ibikunle Amosun, and Gbenga Daniel. “I was taken by surprise when I was announced because I was still looking forward to the party primary. I thank our leaders for this honour done to the sons and daughters of Ogun West after 50 years,” he added.
Adeola appealed to party faithful to remain united, saying, “From today going forward, we are one big indivisible family. We are speaking with one voice. I can assure you that no one is going to coerce me. I am for everyone.” He emphasized the need for total commitment to electoral victory, adding that winning the presidency and other elective positions in 2027 would require collective effort and discipline.
