By Peace Udugba
The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, Oladipupo Adebutu, on Wednesday received a rousing welcome in Ilaro as thousands of Yewa indigenes and party supporters declared their backing for his 2027 governorship bid.
The endorsement rally, held at Tetede Hall in Ilaro, attracted community leaders, youth groups, Awori representatives and PDP faithful from across Ogun West Senatorial District, who pledged to mobilise support for Adebutu and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
Speaking at the event, a leader of the Believe Movement from Imeko-Afon Local Government, Chief Akinbami Lukman, said the group endorsed Adebutu in the interest of Ogun State and vowed to work tirelessly to ensure his victory at the polls.
He assured the PDP candidate that members of the movement would mobilise voters and ensure that every vote cast counts.
Also speaking, the leader of the Door-to-Door Foot Soldiers, Jimoh Azeez, said Nigerian youths were now more politically aware and determined to defend their votes.
“We won’t allow anybody to write the results. We will mobilise, vote and stand by our votes. Our ruling class should know that it is a new dawn. They can continue to meet leaders and traditional rulers, but we are the ones on the field. We will protect Yewa’s turn for a true son of the soil with no controversy,” he said.
Other speakers praised the Adebutu family for its philanthropic activities, saying the family had consistently supported the less privileged even without holding public office. They expressed confidence that Adebutu would prioritise the welfare of Ogun residents if elected governor.
Representatives of the Awori community also declared their support for the PDP candidate, saying their endorsement was based on his leadership qualities and commitment to protecting the dignity of Ogun State rather than political affiliations.
Responding, Adebutu expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, describing the reception as humbling.
He said the warm welcome from the streets of Ilaro to the venue reflected the trust and confidence the people had in his leadership.
Adebutu added that if prominent Yewa politicians such as Gboyega Isiaka or Abiodun Akinlade had emerged as candidates of other political parties, the contest would have been more challenging, noting that he had previously supported genuine Yewa sons whenever they contested for the governorship.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Ogun West and urged residents to defend democracy through their votes.
“I am very happy with the determination that I am seeing here. These are the people, and democracy is for the people. Talk with your votes. We only have one state, and we must protect our heritage,” he said.
Before the rally, Adebutu visited the palace in Ilaro, where he was received by members of the traditional council.
