Leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Ogun West Senatorial District on Sunday declared an end to internal divisions within the party and the zone as they unanimously endorsed Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, ahead of the 2027 Ogun governorship election.
The declaration was made at a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held in Ilaro, Ogun State, where party leaders, elected officials, and political actors across the district pledged unity and collective commitment to the governorship ambition.
Those in attendance 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.
Others 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.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele described the meeting as a significant moment for Ogun West and commended the roles played by President Bola Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun in achieving consensus.
She said, “Today is a significant day for Ogun West. 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.
“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 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,” she said.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for Health, Kunle Salako, said the long-standing aspiration of Ogun West to produce a governor could only be realised 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, said 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, while speaking, said that although consensus was important, victory at the polls remained the ultimate goal, urging members to intensify mobilisation.
“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.
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, saying the district had resolved to move forward as one political family.
“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 said.
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 emphasised 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.
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