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A prominent business mogul in Ogun state, Alhaji Rasak Lawal Arolat, has formally declared his full support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) ahead of the 2027 Ogun State governorship race, describing Yayi as a tested, people-oriented leader with a clear vision for the development of the state.
Arolat made this declaration at a well-attended political and youth-focused programme held in Ilaro, Ogun State, which also featured the official inauguration of the Yayi Student Vanguard (YSV) and a series of empowerment activities for students across tertiary institutions in the state.
The event, themed “The Power of Students in Shaping Greater Ogun: Advancing Yayi’s Vision 2027 with Renewed Hope,” attracted students from virtually all tertiary institutions in Ogun State, youth leaders, party stakeholders, community representatives, and political figures, signaling growing grassroots momentum for Senator Yayi’s 2027 ambition.
Speaking through his representative, Comrade Okikiola Babalola, Alhaji Arolat—a respected entrepreneur and philanthropist—emphasized the need for unity among party leaders, particularly in Yewa land and across Ogun State, to ensure that Senator Yayi secures the party ticket and emerge as the next governor of the state in 2027.
According to him, Yayi’s track record in public service, youth engagement, and constituency empowerment places him in a strong position to deliver purposeful leadership at Oke Mosan.
He noted that the time has come for Ogun State to embrace competence, experience, and inclusive governance.
“As a business leader who understands development, investment, and human capital, Alhaji Arolat believes Senator Yayi represents the kind of leadership Ogun State needs in 2027. This is why he has taken a clear position to support and mobilize for Yayi,” Comrade Babalola stated.
Beyond the political declaration, the event featured a students’ empowerment programme, further underscoring Arolat’s commitment to youth development and education.
Educational materials, including books, were distributed to students, while selected beneficiaries also received financial support, a gesture widely applauded by attendees as timely and impactful.
The empowerment initiative was described by organizers as a practical demonstration of the shared belief by Arolat and the Yayi Student Vanguard that students and youth must be supported materially, not just rhetorically, in the journey toward a greater Ogun State.
Earlier in the programme, the Yayi Student Vanguard was formally inaugurated, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s evolution as a statewide student and youth political support structure.
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In his welcome address, the Convener of the Vanguard, Comrade James A. Olanose (Bigval), highlighted the group’s growing influence and commitment to civic participation.
He disclosed that the Yayi Student Vanguard has already mobilized over 5,000 students and youths for the ongoing voters’ registration exercise, stressing that the number continues to rise.
He also revealed that the group had earlier undertaken a self-sponsored humanitarian outreach during the Ramadan period, distributing food items such as rice, garri, and indomie to students in the name of Senator Yayi—an initiative funded entirely from members’ personal resources without political sponsorship.
“This movement is driven by conviction, not inducement,” Comrade Olanose said.
“We believe in Senator Yayi’s vision, his love for students and youth, and his commitment to inclusive development in Ogun State.”
The event also featured an intellectual session, with Prince Femi Dokunmu delivering a lecture that emphasized youth responsibility, leadership consciousness, and the strategic role of students in shaping governance and democratic outcomes.
Several dignitaries graced the occasion, including Hon. Ola Aina, Royal fathers, Hon. Tunde Okewole, who represented the DG Caucus 7202, and Hon. Moctar Olaseni Koiki, among other party leaders and stakeholders. Speakers at the event echoed the call for unity, discipline, and strategic mobilization ahead of the 2027 elections.
In his remarks, Hon. Koiki reiterated Arolat’s position, urging party leaders across Ogun State, particularly in Yewa axis, to rally behind Senator Yayi and work collectively toward securing victory in 2027.
Observers described the event as a strategic convergence of politics, youth mobilization, and empowerment, signaling an early but strong alignment of influential stakeholders ahead of the next electoral cycle.
With the successful inauguration of the Yayi Student Vanguard, visible student participation from across Ogun State, and the open declaration of support by a respected business mogul like Alhaji Arolat, political analysts believe that Senator Yayi’s 2027 ambition has gained another significant boost at the grassroots level.
As Ogun State gradually inches toward the next general elections, the role of students, youth, and private-sector leaders appears set to play a decisive role in shaping the political landscape.
