Follow Us on Google
By Philip Nwosu and Laide Raheem, Abeokuta
Traditional rulers in the Yewa area of Ogun West senatorial district in Ogun State, have reportedly stormed out of a meeting with the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Oladipupo Adebutu.
The monarchs were also reported to have rejected money from the governorship candidate during a meeting presided over by the Olu of Ilaro and the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, in Ilaro, Yewa South Local Government Area.
An account from the meeting confirmed the development and informed our correspondent that all the traditional rulers insisted there was no compromise on the choice of candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State.
He added that the monarchs maintained that no amount of monetary inducement would sway them to queue behind Adebutu.
One of the traditional rulers who pleaded anonymity said the decision was collectively taken by all the monarchs in the zone.
He added that stakeholders in Yewaland remain united in their choice of Senator Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as the preferred candidate for the office of governor come 2027.
The traditional ruler declared that the time has come for Ogun West to be liberated and take its place in the political equation of Ogun State.
“We have been in the political dungeon for several decades in Ogun State. We are the only senatorial district that has not produced a governor. This is our best chance, and we are not ready to back down on the opportunity to liberate Ogun West,” he submitted.
However, Adebutu received a rousing reception in Ilaro as thousands of Yewa indigenes and party supporters gathered to endorse his governorship election bid.
The event, held in Ilaro, attracted leaders of various political support groups, youth organisations, community stakeholders and PDP faithful from across Ogun West Senatorial District, who pledged their support for Adebutu’s ambition.
Addressing the gathering, leader of the Believe Movement from Imeko-Afon Local Government Area, Chief Akinbami Lukman, said members of the group resolved to support Adebutu because they believe his candidacy represents the best interest of the state.
Lukman assured the PDP candidate of their commitment to mobilising voters and working to ensure the success of his campaign during the 2027 election.
“We have resolved to support Oladipupo Adebutu because we believe his leadership will serve the interest of Ogun people. We are prepared to work for his victory and ensure that every vote counts,” he said.
Also speaking, the leader of the Door-to-Door Foot Soldiers, Mr. Jimoh Azeez, expressed confidence that young voters would play a decisive role in the forthcoming election.
According to him, Nigerian youths are increasingly politically conscious and determined to defend the integrity of the electoral process.
“We will mobilise, vote and stand by our votes. This is a new era, and the people will determine the outcome through the ballot,” Azeez said.
Several other speakers at the event commended the philanthropic activities of the Adebutu family, saying their long-standing support for vulnerable members of society had earned them goodwill across the state.
Representatives of the Awori community also declared their support for the PDP candidate, describing him as a leader capable of promoting inclusive development and protecting the interests of Ogun State.
Responding, Adebutu expressed appreciation for the warm reception and overwhelming support, describing it as a demonstration of the people’s commitment to democratic participation.
He said he was deeply encouraged by the turnout, which began from the streets of Ilaro through to the venue of the endorsement programme.
Adebutu reiterated his commitment to the development of Ogun West Senatorial District and the entire state if elected governor.
“I am humbled by the show of love and support from the people of Yewa. Democracy belongs to the people, and I urge everyone to express their choice through their votes. We have only one Ogun State, and together we must protect and develop it.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of political leaders from Ogun West, noting that he had previously supported the aspirations of prominent sons of the district whenever they emerged as candidates in previous elections.
Before the endorsement event, Adebutu visited the palace of the traditional ruler in Ilaro, where he was received by members of the traditional council.
The endorsement comes as political activities continue to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections in Ogun State, with aspirants and political parties intensifying consultations and grassroots mobilisation across the state.
