Beyond Partisanship: Why Ogun’s Opposition Parties Should Embrace APC’s Ogun West Agenda, Support Senator Adeola Yayi’s Emergence

..Symbolises Equity, Inclusion and Political Justice in Ogun State

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED

For many observers of Ogun State politics, the emergence of Distinguished Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 election represents more than a routine political development. It is widely viewed as a historic opportunity to address a longstanding imbalance in the political leadership of the state.

When the three former governors of Ogun State, the incumbent governor, the State Chairman of the APC, and other critical stakeholders of the party came together to unanimously endorse and adopt Senator Adeola Yayi as the party’s governorship candidate, it sent a powerful message of unity, purpose, and commitment to fairness. Their collective decision was not merely about politics; it reflected a recognition of the need to give Ogun West Senatorial District, particularly Yewaland, an opportunity to occupy the state’s highest office after decades of waiting.

For a district that has remained on the sidelines since the creation of Ogun State nearly six decades ago, the consensus reached by the APC leadership was seen by many as a bold step toward promoting equity, justice, and inclusiveness in the state’s political arrangement.

Of course, politics is a game of interests, and democracy guarantees every eligible citizen the constitutional right to seek elective office. No one can deny any individual the freedom to contest for any position, including that of governor.

Elections are fundamentally about choices, competition, and the exercise of democratic rights. However, beyond the legal and constitutional arguments lies the moral question of fairness.

There comes a time when political actors and stakeholders must look beyond personal ambition and consider the broader interests of the communities and people they seek to serve. When issues of equity, justice, and mutual respect are ignored, it created a sense of disappointment and frustration among those who have patiently waited for their turn in the political equation.

What is even more difficult to comprehend is when individuals from the same senatorial district, local government, and even the same political environment as former Governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel and current Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun still believe it is appropriate for their area to continue holding onto the governorship seat, despite the fact that Ogun West has never been given the opportunity to produce a governor.

The situation becomes more troubling when personal financial strength or political influence is presented as justification for seeking the office, irrespective of the prevailing realities. Governance should not be determined solely by who has the deepest pockets or the strongest political machinery. It should also reflect the principles of fairness, inclusion, and a genuine commitment to fostering unity among all sections of the state.

While it may not be mandatory for other political parties to adopt the same zoning or consensus arrangement embraced by the APC, one would expect political leaders across party lines to appreciate the significance of the moment. Decisions that affect the collective aspirations of an entire community should be approached with sensitivity, wisdom, and a sense of responsibility.

Indeed, had the APC leadership not demonstrated foresight and courage by rallying behind Senator Adeola Yayi, Ogun West could once again have watched a golden opportunity slip away. The district might have remained trapped in a cycle of perpetual expectation, waiting for another chance that may not come anytime soon.

It is therefore understandable why many people regard the decision of the past and present Ogun State governors, together with other APC stakeholders, as a landmark intervention capable of breaking a political jinx that has endured for generations.

Their action has rekindled hope among the people of Ogun West and strengthened the belief that fairness can still prevail in the political process.

Today, the growing support for Senator Adeola Yayi across various segments of Ogun State is seen by his supporters as evidence that the aspiration for an Ogun West governor resonated beyond regional boundaries.

To them, Senator Adeola Yayi’s candidacy represents not only the fulfillment of a longstanding political aspiration but also an opportunity to further unite the state around the ideals of equity and shared progress.

As the journey towards the 2027 governorship election gathers momentum, many supporters remain optimistic that the overwhelming goodwill and support currently enjoyed by Senator Adeola Yayi will translate into electoral victory.

They believe that with sustained unity, commitment, and divine grace, the APC candidate and his running mate will secure a resounding mandate from the people of Ogun State.

For them, the 2027 election is not just another contest for political power; it is a defining moment in the history of Ogun State and a chance to finally ensure that every part of the state has a sense of belonging in the governance of the Gateway State.

We pray that, Insha Allah, the long-awaited aspiration of Ogun West to produce the Governor of Ogun State will become a reality in 2027.