Ogun opposition not threat to Yayi, says ex-lawmaker

Ogun State's political landscape appears to be solidifying in favor of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with former federal lawmaker Kayode Oladele confidently dismissing the opposition's chances in the 2027 governorship race. Oladele's assessment, shared with The PUNCH, points to significant weaknesses within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), including leadership deficiencies and dwindling party structures.

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The issue goes beyond personal ambition and touches on fairness and sound political judgment. Without pre-empting, Adebutu’s emergence from the same Remo axis as the incumbent governor, Dapo Abiodun, would further complicate the PDP’s position on equity and balanced representation.

Oladele specifically questions the PDP's strategy, suggesting that a potential renomination of their 2023 candidate, Ladi Adebutu, would be a misstep. He raises concerns about fairness and balanced representation, noting that another governor from the Remo axis, like Adebutu, would likely face resistance from voters seeking a more equitable distribution of power across the state's senatorial districts.

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There is a clear shift in the political environment. Key figures and grassroots supporters from opposition parties are aligning with the APC because they recognise where the strength lies.

The former lawmaker also observes a trend of defections from opposition parties to the APC, which he interprets as a clear sign of their declining relevance and internal disarray. This migration of key figures and grassroots supporters, he argues, demonstrates a recognition of where political strength now lies in Ogun State.

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Across Ogun State, there is increasing support for Senator Adeola Yayi. His track record, political reach and grassroots connection have positioned him as the candidate to beat.

Central to Oladele's prediction is the rising prominence of Senator Olamilekan Adeola Yayi, whom he describes as the APC's consensus candidate. Oladele portrays Yayi's emergence as a product of extensive consultations and party unity, emphasizing his broad acceptance and grassroots connection. The senator's momentum, Oladele suggests, is akin to an unstoppable movement, divinely ordained and aligned with the will of the people of Ogun State. This narrative positions Yayi not just as a candidate, but as a destiny-driven leader poised to guide the state's development.

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The responsibility of leading Ogun State cannot be reduced to ambition. It requires capacity, experience and a clear understanding of the state’s development path.