2027 Election Race Heats Up: Ex-APC Aspirant Backs Senator Adeola with Vehicles

Dr. Adetunji Oredipe, a former governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, has made a significant contribution to the party's campaign efforts ahead of the 2027 general elections. Oredipe, who also serves as a senior agricultural economist at the World Bank, recently donated campaign vehicles and a dedicated campaign office situated in the Ijebu North East Local Government Area to Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, the APC's chosen governorship candidate for Ogun State. This gesture was formally presented during a ceremony held at Legan Hall in Ijebu-Ode.

According to Dr. Oredipe, this donation is a strategic move by his OTO political team to seamlessly integrate its existing structure into the broader YAYI Movement, with the overarching goal of mobilizing robust support for all APC candidates in the upcoming 2027 elections. He emphasized that his team's commitment extends beyond the governorship race, aiming to secure votes for Senator Adeola, as well as for the party's presidential ticket, featuring President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima, alongside candidates vying for senatorial and various other elective positions throughout Ogun State.

Speaking to journalists following the handover ceremony, Oredipe elaborated that the provision of campaign infrastructure, including the newly established office, vehicles, and other operational assets, forms an integral part of his team's comprehensive preparations to galvanize grassroots support and reinforce the party's organizational foundations. He affirmed that the decision to back Senator Adeola stems from a profound belief in the senator's political agenda and his perceived capability to effectively govern the state. Oredipe stated, “If you believe in a mission, you must invest in it. We are saying that we believe in what he is doing, and our support cannot be limited to words alone. We have to demonstrate it through action,” underscoring the practical commitment of his team.

Describing Adeola as the most suitable candidate to lead Ogun State at this juncture, Oredipe acknowledged that the ultimate decision rests with the voters. He conveyed the team's conviction: “At this moment, we believe it is in everyone’s best interest to support Yayi. That is the decision we have made. Others will have their time, but I believe that, at this point, Yayi is the answer.” Furthermore, the World Bank official revealed plans for an extensive door-to-door campaign to rally support for APC candidates across the entire state. He noted the APC's significant progress in areas traditionally considered strongholds of the opposition, expressing increased confidence in the party's prospects due to growing support. He cited instances where residents in communities historically aligned with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are now openly expressing their support for the APC and its candidates.

In response to the generous donation, Senator Adeola expressed his sincere gratitude to Dr. Oredipe, recognizing the profound significance of the gesture and assuring that it would be highly valued. He lauded Oredipe as a distinguished Nigerian and an administrator possessing exceptional abilities, expressing his anticipation of collaborating closely with him should he be elected governor. Adeola further pledged that, if successful, his administration would prioritize the welfare of Ogun State residents and commit to substantial investments in human development initiatives aimed at enhancing living conditions across the state. He also reiterated that members of the OTO political family have officially joined the YAYI Movement and will actively collaborate with other party members to ensure the APC's triumph in the 2027 elections.