Former House of Representatives member Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu has been selected as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State for the 2027 election. He emerged following an affirmation exercise conducted across all 236 wards in the state's 20 local government areas.
Affirmation and Declaration
The formal declaration took place on Sunday at the Abeokuta Sports Club in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, where party members reaffirmed his candidacy. The Chairman of the Ogun PDP Governorship Primary Committee, Chief Ariyo Afolabi, explained that voting occurred earlier in the day across all wards, and the gathering was convened to collate results and announce the winner.
According to Afolabi, Hon. Ladi Adebutu was the sole aspirant screened by the party, as per the Electoral Act and PDP Constitution. He emerged as the candidate by consensus and was officially declared the PDP governorship candidate.
Party Leaders' Remarks
The Ogun State PDP Chairman, Hon. Abayomi Tella, described the event as a defining moment for the party, reflecting renewed strength and unity. He emphasized that past contests often involved disagreements, but this time the party was stable. Party officials noted that the consensus arrangement aimed to present a united front ahead of the 2027 election, and the exercise was peaceful and followed party guidelines.
Adebutu's Acceptance Speech
In his acceptance speech, Adebutu thanked party leaders, stakeholders, and members for their endorsement, calling the outcome a reflection of unity and commitment. He urged PDP members to maintain peaceful coexistence and stressed that unity is essential for the party's progress.
Adebutu accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of governing Ogun State for over 15 years without delivering meaningful development, despite the state's abundant resources. He alleged that the PDP won the 2023 governorship election but was denied victory due to manipulation. He expressed confidence that the 2027 election would be different and urged members to focus on reclaiming the state.
Support from Other Leaders
Former House of Representatives member Hon. Adekoya Adesegun Abdel-Majid stated that the PDP remains a formidable force and would spring surprises in 2027. Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, who attended the event, congratulated Adebutu and urged party members to remain committed, emphasizing that Adebutu deserves support.
With this affirmation, Adebutu is set to lead the PDP's bid to reclaim Ogun State after contesting the governorship in 2019 and 2023.
