In a landmark move that has reshaped the political landscape of Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun officially announced Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate for the 2027 gubernatorial election.
strategic announcement marks a pivotal moment in the state’s history, signaling a unified front to break the long-standing “jinx” regarding the governorship and Ogun West.
Emergence of Yayi as consensus candidate
The emergence of Senator Adeola is not merely an individual triumph but the result of what Governor Abiodun described as “extensive consultations and strategic engagements.”
In a rare display of political synergy, leading aspirants from the Ogun West Senatorial District, Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka (GNI) and Rt. Hon. Isiaq Abiodun Akinlade, stepped down to support Adeola.
Governor Abiodun praised the duo for their “commendable unity and commitment to the collective interest,” emphasizing that the decision was rooted in:
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Competence and Capacity: Assessing candidates based on their track record.
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Vision Alignment: Ensuring the successor can sustain the current administration’s progress.
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District Equity: Addressing the historical exclusion of Ogun West from the governor’s office.
Breaking the Ogun West “jinx”
For decades, the Ogun West district has sought to produce a governor, often falling short due to internal divisions and external political dynamics. By consolidating support behind Senator Adeola, the APC aims to present a formidable, singular choice. “Together, we are determined to break the long-standing jinx,” Abiodun stated, expressing confidence that Adeola would build upon the existing legacy of development.
Consensus candidate Yayi’s response
Reacting to the endorsement, Senator Adeola appeared alongside GNI and Hon. Akinlade to affirm their collective agreement. The Senator expressed profound gratitude to the party leadership and specifically acknowledged the influence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“We reiterated that Ogun West is fully prepared and united for the forthcoming gubernatorial contest. THANK YOU APC. THANK YOU, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Adeola remarked.
Yayi addresses the media flagged by his Ogun West “brothers”, Hon. Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka (GNI) and Hon.Isiaq Abiodun Akinlade. Watch below:
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Looking ahead to 2027 elections
With the official unveiling of Yayi, the APC has set a clear course for the 2027 polls. The party’s strategy focuses on internal cohesion and early mobilization.
By resolving the candidacy issue years in advance, the APC in Ogun State signals to the opposition that it is entering the race as a united house, ready to deliver “greater dividends of democracy” to the people of the Gateway State.
