Ogun 2027: Adebutu Vows LG Autonomy, Engages Traditional Leaders

Ladi Adebutu, the Peoples Democratic Party's (PDP) governorship hopeful for Ogun State, has commenced outreach to traditionalists and elders in Egbaland, soliciting their prayers and backing for the upcoming 2027 gubernatorial contest. Adebutu, accompanied by his political team, visited the Oloje traditionalist community in Abeokuta on Tuesday as part of his ongoing engagements with various stakeholders across the state.

During his visit, Adebutu assured the traditional leaders that, should he be elected, his administration would prioritize accountability, foster peace, and ensure prudent management of public funds. He explicitly stated, “I am assuring the people that if we are supported to be at the helm of affairs in the state in 2027, our government will prioritise accountability and prudent management of our collective resources. We shall put the people first and we will deliberately pursue rapid development from the grassroots. Therefore, we shall ensure that the funds meant for each local government are released to the councils for effective administration and rural development.”

Despite identifying as a devout Christian, Adebutu emphasized that his faith does not diminish his recognition of the vital role traditional institutions and practitioners play in fostering societal peace, unity, and harmony.

Speaking at the event, Toyin Amuzu, a PDP House of Representatives candidate, urged residents to cast their votes for the party at all levels, highlighting the PDP's commitment to Abeokuta and Ogun State's development. Amuzu referenced the provision of a transformer to the community as an example of interventions facilitated by PDP members, while expressing concern over inadequate attention to electricity issues in parts of Abeokuta. He remarked, “Someone who can extend a hand of fellowship to you will continue to extend it to you. Someone who cannot extend their hand to you will not give you anything. Please, let us vote for the PDP.”

Amuzu also cautioned the electorate against being swayed by monetary inducements during elections, warning of potential long-term consequences. “Do not let them give us money on election day and ask us to go and cook soup, only for us to suffer for another four years. We will not suffer anymore, by God’s grace,” he declared.

High Chief Mustapha Adulakeem Owolabi, the Akinfiwatolu of Egbaland, encouraged traditionalists and residents to back what he termed a new political movement aimed at securing greater representation and attention for Egbaland. He urged the populace to resist political manipulation and prioritize Egbaland’s interests in their decisions concerning the 2027 election. “Collect their money and vote for Ladi Adebutu,” he advised the gathering, advocating for voters to exercise their franchise according to their conscience. The chief reiterated that Ogun State citizens should have the liberty to choose their leaders, asserting that the government must reflect the populace's aspirations, interests, and identity.

Olawale Akanbi, Ọmọlẹ́gbẹ́, a traditional elder, noted that the Oloje community welcomed Adebutu primarily to offer prayers and blessings for his political journey. Akanbi emphasized the ballot as the primary tool for people to elect their leaders. He said, “The reason we received him as a guest is that we, the ‘Oloje’, want to offer him our prayers and blessings, so that the prayers will be answered and he may reach his destination.”

Chief Gbenga Adesina, Ojediran Fajegbinro, another elder, described Adebutu’s visit as a significant acknowledgment of traditional religion practitioners as key stakeholders. Adesina expressed satisfaction that Adebutu had engaged traditionalists after meeting with other religious groups, including Christians and Muslims. He stated, “They met with the Pastors, and they met with the Imams. And they also recognised the practitioners of the Isese religion. All of us together make up the community.” Subsequently, Adesina declared his support for the PDP candidate, affirming that traditionalists would back politicians who recognize and interact with them. “It is whoever comes to seek us out that we will support. Honourable Ladi Adebutu came to meet us right now, so he is the one we see. All our votes, he is the one we will cast them for,” he concluded.