The Ijebu Traditional Council of Obas has endorsed Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2027 Ogun State governorship election, while also backing Governor Dapo Abiodun’s bid for the Ogun East Senatorial seat.
The endorsement was announced on Friday during a meeting of the council at the Awujale’s Palace in Ijebu-Ode, where Governor Abiodun formally presented Adeola and his running mate, Alhaja Kudirat Abiodun Adegunwa Balogun, to the traditional rulers.
Speaking on behalf of the 56 monarchs in the council, the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo, Oba Lawrence Jaiyeoba Adebajo, said the traditional rulers unanimously supported Adeola, citing his contributions to infrastructure development and other projects across Ogun State.
Adebajo disclosed that the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, had expressed support for Adeola’s governorship ambition before his death and pledged to back his candidacy.
He also revealed that the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas and Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, had sought the support of the Ijebu Traditional Council for Adeola’s candidacy.
Governor Abiodun described the meeting as historic, saying Adeola possessed the experience, leadership qualities and capacity to sustain the developmental strides of his administration.
“I have found a worthy successor in Senator Olamilekan Adeola. He is someone who ticks all the boxes. I was looking for someone with business experience, political maturity and leadership skills who can continue the trajectory of governance in Ogun State,” the governor said.
Responding, Adeola thanked the governor, the APC leadership and the traditional rulers for their confidence in him, pledging to build on the achievements of the current administration if elected.
He said his administration would prioritise economic development by leveraging major infrastructure projects, including the proposed deep seaport in Ogun Waterside, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the state’s anticipated status as an oil-producing state.
“I want to assure you that if elected, I will consolidate the economic growth of Ijebuland and build on what Governor Abiodun has achieved for the benefit of Ogun State,” Adeola said.
The APC governorship candidate also reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and promised continued consultations with traditional rulers and other stakeholders across the state ahead of the 2027 election.
His visit to Ijebu-Ode attracted supporters and party members who lined major streets to welcome him as consultations continue across Ogun’s three senatorial districts.
