By Yinka Abegunde | Abeokuta
Wild jubilation erupted at the All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat in Abeokuta yesterday as the party openly adopted Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as its governorship candidate for the 2027 election.
The lawmaker representing Ogun West was announced as the party’s consensus standard-bearer during a strategic caucus meeting presided over by state chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, who made the announcement, urged other aspirants to rally round Adeola and put the party’s interest above personal ambition. The governor’s words were barely audible at times as chants of “Yayi ni jo, Yayi ni jare” filled the hall.
The meeting brought together a who’s who of Ogun politics. In attendance were Governor Abiodun and three former governors: Olusegun Osoba, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and Ibikunle Amosun. Also present were Senator Iyabo Obasanjo, federal lawmaker Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka, and several other serving and past members of the National and State Assemblies.
‘A new Ogun State is born’
In his acceptance speech, an emotional Adeola thanked party leaders for what he called their “sacrifices” and promised not to let the party down.
“Now is all the sacrifices that my brothers have put together to ensure this day comes to pass,” he said. “I believe in the oneness and unity of our dear state and Ogun West by extension.”
The senator pledged to maintain Ogun’s status as Nigeria’s fastest-growing economy and an industrial powerhouse.
“I will not derail the ship I am about to take over. I will do my utmost best to keep every member of our great party together. A new Ogun State is born today.”
Obasanjo steps aside
In a swift reaction, Senator Iyabo Obasanjo announced she was suspending her governorship consultation and congratulated Adeola.
“I thank the state and national leaders of our great party for the opportunity to participate in the nomination process,” she said in a statement. “To my supporters across Ogun State, I am deeply grateful for your calm, steadfast support.”
Sanusi, the party chairman, explained that the meeting was called to preserve unity and ensure rancour-free primaries ahead of the 2027 polls.
With the endorsement now public, political observers say the race for the 2027 governorship in Ogun has effectively narrowed, at least within the ruling party.
