By SAM POPOOLA, Ota
In a calculated move to strengthen unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 Ogun State governorship election, the party’s consensus candidate, Distinguished Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, held a series of strategic consultations with key stakeholders and party leaders in Abeokuta, the state capital.
As part of his reconciliatory and inclusive approach, Senator Adeola, who currently represents Ogun West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, met with fellow aspirant Senator (Prof.) Iyabo Obasanjo and her political supporters.
The meeting, attended by prominent associates and loyalists of Iyabo Obasanjo, was declared open by Alhaja Salmot Badru, former Deputy Governor of Ogun State, who praised the former senator for her enduring contributions to governance and public service.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Adeola described the visit as one of appreciation rather than reconciliation, noting that there was no division to mend given Iyabo Obasanjo’s early and steadfast support for his emergence.
He also commended her record as former senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, stressing that her achievements in office remain widely acknowledged across the state.
Adeola assured Iyabo Obasanjo and her supporters that his campaign and future administration would be inclusive, promising that all interests would be carried along.
“I am here to thank my sister and to assure her that we will work together. I am ready to align with her vision and ensure that, collectively, we take Ogun State to the next level,” he said.
He further pledged to accommodate her ideas and policy contributions, emphasizing that no group or stakeholder would be sidelined.
Continuing his consultations, Senator Adeola also met with another former governorship aspirant, Ambassador Sharafa Tunji Ishola, alongside his supporters.
The meeting proved significant as the former Minister and Ambassador openly declared his total support for Senator Adeola, aligning himself and his political structure with the APC consensus arrangement.
Ambassador Ishola, who had earlier shown interest in the governorship race before Adeola’s emergence, stressed the need for discipline, unity, and loyalty to party decisions.
“We are APC members, and we are bound by the decision of the party. As a statesman, I have a duty to abide by that decision,” Ishola stated.
He added that the consensus arrangement reflected broad agreement among influential stakeholders, including Governor Dapo Abiodun and former governors Chief Olusegun Osoba, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, and Senator Gbenga Daniel.
According to him, the support of such prominent political figures gives the process credibility and legitimacy.
“What consensus can be greater than one that brings together past and present governors of the state?” he asked.
Taking his endorsement further, Ambassador Ishola announced that all political groups under his leadership had unanimously adopted Senator Adeola as their preferred candidate, pledging full cooperation going forward.
Responding, Senator Adeola expressed deep appreciation for Ishola’s support and willingness to work collaboratively.
“This is the second time we are meeting on this matter, and on both occasions, Ambassador Ishola has demonstrated remarkable support. He has agreed to work closely with me without reservation,” Adeola said.
He explained that his outreach was driven by respect for Ishola’s leadership qualities, wealth of experience, and contributions to national development, as well as his commitment to Ogun State’s progress.
“I will not take your support and endorsement for granted,” he assured.
Further demonstrating respect for party elders, Senator Adeola paid a courtesy visit to prominent APC chieftain, Chief Joju Fadairo.
The elder statesman offered prayers for peace, unity, and progress in Ogun State, while affirming his support for Adeola and expressing confidence in his leadership ability.
Speaking after the engagements, Senator Adeola reiterated the commitment of party leaders and stakeholders to remain united ahead of the 2027 polls.
“Ambassador Sharafa Ishola, Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, and my humble self have collectively agreed to stay united and work together towards delivering a resounding victory for our party, the APC, at all levels in the 2027 general elections,” he stated.
Political observers said the consultations underscore Adeola’s determination to carry all interests along in the evolving APC political process.
They noted that his deliberate outreach to fellow aspirants and party leaders signals a maturing political culture within the Ogun APC, positioning the party for a stronger and more cohesive outing in the crucial 2027 governorship election.
0 Comments