Leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Ogun West Senatorial District on Sunday declared an end to internal divisions within the party as they unanimously endorsed the consensus candidate, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, ahead of the 2027 Ogun State governorship election.
The declaration was made at a strategic stakeholders’ meeting held in Ilaro, Ogun State, where party leaders, elected officials, and political actors across the district pledged unity and collective support for the governorship ambition.
Those in attendance included the Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Minister of State for Health, Dr Kunle Salako; members of the House of Representatives led by Abiodun Akinlade, Gboyega Isiaka, and Tunji Akinosi.
Others present were Senator Akin Odunsi; Senator Iyabo Anisulowo; former Deputy Governor, Alhaja Makanjuola Badru; Senator Gbolahan Dada; Senator Tolu Odebiyi; Adekunle Akinlade; Deputy Speaker, Lateefat Alabi; and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr Toyin Taiwo, among others.
Speaking at the event, Salako-Oyedele described the meeting as a significant moment for Ogun West and commended the roles played by President Bola Tinubu and the governor in achieving consensus.
She said, “Today is a significant day for Ogun West. I want to express gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the pilot of our ship, Governor Dapo Abiodun, for the roles they played to get us here.
“As a sitting government, I have seen how disadvantaged Ogun West has been. It is my prayer that God will give Senator Adeola the wisdom to deliver in this role. This project is my project.
“I call on you not to ignore the women as you build your team and shape your government.
I congratulate our brothers and sisters from Ogun West, and I pray that Almighty Allah grants the APC victory in all elective positions, from the President to the House of Assembly in the 2027 general elections.”
Dr Salako said the long-standing aspiration of Ogun West to produce a governor could only be achieved through sustained unity.
“For years, Ogun West has aspired to lead the state. Now that the opportunity has come, we must remain united and ensure no one is left behind,” he said.
Former governorship aspirant, Akinlade, said internal disagreements within the party had been resolved, describing the meeting as a renewed moment of purpose.
“No matter what has been said before now, we are no longer divided. This is a meeting of purpose. We are now one and ready to move forward together,” he said.
The Ogun West APC Chairman, Alhaji Azeez Ekwueme, commended the zoning arrangement of the governorship ticket to the district and urged members to close ranks behind the consensus candidate.
Adekunle Akinlade said while consensus was important, electoral victory remained the ultimate goal, urging members to intensify mobilisation efforts.
“It is not enough to agree. We must work to win. Every member must play a role in ensuring that our party emerges victorious,” he said.
Isiaka called on party members to put aside personal interests and work collectively for success in the 2027 elections.
Adeola, in his remarks, described the development as a turning point for Ogun West, saying the district had resolved to move forward as one political family.
“I cannot imagine that we are here today as one indivisible family to affirm that it is Ogun West’s turn. From today, we are one big family speaking with one voice.
“No one will be sidelined. We are together in this journey,” he said.
He also acknowledged the roles played by the President, Governor Abiodun, and former governors Olusegun Osoba, Ibikunle Amosun, and Gbenga Daniel.
“I was taken by surprise when I was announced because I was still looking forward to the party primary. I thank our leaders for this honour done to the sons and daughters of Ogun West after 50 years of Ogun State,” he added.
Adeola appealed for unity, saying, “From today going forward, we are one big indivisible family. We are speaking with one voice. I can assure you that no one is going to coerce me. I am for everyone.”
He added, “This is just the beginning. Elections will happen, and we must do everything within our power to win for the President and other elective positions. We will not leave anyone behind, and we will ensure equity.”
