Ajadi visits Soun of Ogbomosho, seeks royal blessings for 2027 Oyo governorship bid

Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, a governorship aspirant in Oyo State, visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Oladunni Olaoye Orumogege III, on Monday to receive royal blessings as he prepares for the 2027 election.

Ajadi, accompanied by key political associates, arrived early at the palace, where the monarch and traditional chiefs welcomed him in a short but meaningful ceremony rooted in Ogbomosho’s long-held customs of political and cultural consultation.

During the visit, Ajadi explained that his gesture was driven by his respect for traditional rulers and the belief that significant political ambitions should begin with their support and prayers.

“This visit is to honour the throne and seek your blessings and guidance,” he said. “It is also an opportunity to extend my goodwill to Kabiyesi as we celebrate the Christmas and New Year season.”

Ajadi noted that Oyo State has recorded important achievements under Governor Seyi Makinde and emphasised the need for continuity through energetic, forward-thinking leadership.

“Oyo State needs sustained progress through young, vibrant leaders who share the vision of Engineer Oluseyi Makinde,” he said. “I am here to seek your mentorship and fatherly direction as I work towards contributing to good governance in the state.”

The entrepreneur, philanthropist and politician also highlighted his track record, recalling his previous roles, including his time as a presidential aspirant of the NNPP and later as the party’s governorship candidate in Ogun State during the 2023 elections.

“I have always championed good governance and humanitarian initiatives,” he said. “Through the Ajadi Movement, we have supported youths, the elderly and vulnerable citizens across Nigeria.”

Ajadi further stressed his strong ties to Oyo State, describing himself as a true indigene.

“Kabiyesi, I am from Ward 8, Osengere, Egbeda Local Government in Ibadan,” he explained. “My late father, popularly known as Sola West, was a renowned Ibadan musician and the younger brother of Chief Bode Amao, a highly respected elder in our family and in Oyo State.”

Seeking the monarch’s prayers, Ajadi added, “I present myself for service and humbly request your guidance as I continue my consultations ahead of 2027.”

When the monarch asked him about the challenges currently affecting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ajadi assured him that the issues were internal and would soon be resolved.

“The crisis is internal and temporary,” he said. “Unfortunately, anti-party activities by some individuals—people who have benefited from the PDP—have raised concerns. This behaviour has affected the party’s stability.”

He stressed that unity and discipline within the party were crucial.

In his remarks, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Oladunni Olaoye Orumogege III praised Ajadi for showing respect to tradition.

“You have spoken well for yourself today,” the monarch said. “I wish you success in all your endeavours. Congratulations in advance.”