Ogun APC Locks in Yayi; Heavyweights throw support behind him

Following the announcement of Mr Adeola Yayi as the consensus APC governorship candidate for Ogun State, political heavyweights have rallied support behind him, projecting party unity ahead of the 2027 polls.

The endorsement came during a high-profile APC Strategic Caucus Meeting in Abeokuta, attended by Governor Dapo Abiodun and former governors Chief Olusegun Osoba, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, and Gbenga Daniel.

Analysts say the presence of these prominent figures signals an unequivocal backing for Yayi and sets a tone of cohesion within the state party.

“I want to commend all our leaders and stakeholders for their unity and cooperation. It is this spirit that made the consensus possible,” Governor Abiodun said, acknowledging the collective effort that brought the party together.

Reactions from Yayi’s erstwhile competitors were conciliatory and measured, reflecting the political realities of APC’s internal hierarchy. Former presidential aspirant Iyabo Obasanjo, who had been pursuing the APC ticket, announced the suspension of her campaign and extended her congratulations:

“I congratulate him and wish him every success. I also thank the state and national leaders of our great party for the opportunity to participate in the nomination process. To my supporters across Ogun State, I am deeply grateful for your calm, steadfast support and unwavering trust throughout this journey. Together, we move forward with patience, strength and hope,” Iyabo said.

Similarly, GNI Mr Isiaka confirmed the developments to journalists, emphasizing that the consensus decision had the backing of the party leadership at the national level:

“The decision was made by the leadership of the party, at the top echelon; and the president has spoken, and that is final. So what is left for us now is for everyone to come together,” Isiaka said, urging unity among party members.

Adding a social media dimension to the wave of support, Oloye Akin Alabi from Oyo, Chairman of the House @Works Committee, recalled his long-standing confidence in Yayi:

“My brother here… Yayi… by the power of God, you’re the next governor of Ogun state. I know some people in Ogun state will be upset with what I’ve just said but people know I speak my mind and that’s it,” he tweeted seven years ago, reinforcing Yayi’s enduring political backing beyond the state.