Ogun 2027: Yayi engages Egba League of Imams, Alfas, promises inclusive development

As part of his ongoing consultations with critical stakeholders ahead of the 2027 Ogun State governorship election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), on Friday met with the Egba League of Imams and Alfas at the Egba Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta.

The engagement was aimed at strengthening dialogue, promoting unity, and discussing the future development of Ogun State.

The meeting attracted prominent Islamic clerics led by the Chief Imam of Egbaland, Sheikh Muhammed Sa’ad Alade Bamgbola, alongside respected sons and daughters of Egbaland.

Introducing Senator Adeola and the APC deputy governorship candidate, Mrs. Abiodun Adegunwa-Balogun, to the gathering, Ogun State APC Chairman, Alhaji Yemi Sanusi, described the Muslim community as a dependable pillar of support for the party over the years.

He recalled that the prayers and backing of Islamic leaders contributed significantly to the victories recorded by the APC in the 2019 and 2023 elections and appealed for similar support ahead of the 2027 governorship poll.

“Your prayers and support were invaluable in 2019 and 2023. We have come again to seek your prayers and support for Senator Adeola Yayi to become the next governor of Ogun State. By the grace of God, when we assume office, we will return to seek your continued prayers for a successful administration,” Sanusi said.

Addressing the gathering, Senator Adeola said his aspiration to govern Ogun State is driven by a genuine desire to serve every resident, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation.

He praised the religious leaders for their contributions to peace and social harmony, stressing that sustainable development can only thrive in a peaceful environment.

“My visit today is not about campaigning but about listening and reassuring our respected religious leaders that our administration will be inclusive, fair and people-centred. Ogun State belongs to all of us. Whether in the cities or rural communities, my commitment is to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every household.

“Throughout my years in public service, I have executed projects across Ogun State because I believe leadership is about meeting the needs of the people. God has given me the opportunity to serve, and I remain committed to using that privilege for the benefit of our people,” Yayi said.

The senator also announced a personal donation of N150 million towards the renovation and expansion of the Egba Central Mosque.

“I have been informed about the plan to renovate and expand this historic mosque. I am making a personal donation of N150 million, which will be transferred immediately into the mosque’s account. In addition, I will facilitate the rehabilitation of the road leading to this mosque, and work will commence as soon as possible.

“Everything I have achieved today is by the grace of Almighty God and the prayers of people like you—our Imams, Alfas and Muslim faithful. I ask for your continued prayers and support as we work together to build a more prosperous Ogun State,” Yayi added.

Responding on behalf of the Muslim community, the Chief Imam of Egbaland, Sheikh Muhammed Sa’ad Alade Bamgbola, commended Senator Adeola for his humility, respect for traditional institutions and commitment to engaging stakeholders.

He prayed for the success of the senator’s aspiration, while urging him to fulfil his promises if elected governor.

“If your plans for Ogun State and Egbaland are sincere, may Almighty God grant your heart’s desires. Egbaland constitutes a significant part of Ogun State and deserves fair treatment. When you become governor, ensure you fulfil your promises to Egbaland while also ensuring fairness to every other part of the state,” the Chief Imam said.

Among dignitaries present at the meeting were Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Olusegun Elemide; former Deputy Governor, Alhaja Salmot Badru; Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu (Omoyayi); Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako; Ogun State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan; and Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Hon. Lanre Oyegbola.