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How Gov. Abiodun Plans To Win His 2nd Term Ticket

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For many politicians, 2023 is like 6 months away, because they know the earlier they start campaigns the better, knowing fully well that so many intrigues will still be played on the field.

This is no different for Ogun State, as both the incumbent governor and the opposition are gearing up for who will assume the exalted office come 2023 elections.

The Ogun State Governor, Dr Prince Dapo Abiodun needs no announcement for his 2nd term ambition, it is well written on the wall and according to political analysis in the state, just like his successor, he will always contest for second term in office and high chances are, he will win the election. One of the reasons he is having the upper hand right now is because he has most of those who matter in and outside government to win the election on his side. He has been making necessary moves to ensure he is well represented in all tbe 3 senatorial districts and he also has those whose followers are large on his team.

One highpoint of Governor Abiodun’s strategic build-up to 2023 is the Quality membership he has been able to attract to the party. Among many others, he has been able to bring former Speaker Dimeji Bankole, former Governor Gbenga Daniel and , Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, into the APC fold. Given the place of the new members, in the Ogun political calculus, there are many who hold the view that Ogun has effectively become a one-party state, and that the re-election bid of Governor Abiodun should be smooth-sailing, as he is not likely to face serious challenges in getting the APC ticket. The story is that having built a solid political base, Governor Abiodun can count on his allies to deliver the coveted prize.

Although party members claimed that the party remains one indivisible body, the outcome of October 16, 2021, State Congress signify otherwise, with the look of things the party is more divided than it was in the build-up to the 2019 general elections, based on recent happenings, including recent defection galore into the party.

There are currently at least 3 different factions in the party. Discernible is the Senator Ibikunle Amosun (SIA/PMB) group, former governor Olusegun Osoba Group and the incumbent governor’s group.

Sources within the party disclosed that these lineups have surreptitiously commenced underground fireworks and antics, in their bid to clinch the state’s number one seat. This was manifested with the parallel congress held by the Amosun faction, where factional party leaders also emerged.

Beyond the political structures, many have pointed to the governor’s strides in various sectors, including Education, Roads, Housing and Agriculture. They point to road projects like the 10-lane Epe/Ijebu expressway, the floating of Tech hubs to drive Youth Engagement in the Ogun economy, the massive enrolment in schools following the abolition of tuition, the repositioning of the state’s tertiary institutions and the massive promotion and reward of outstanding teachers with cars and houses.

Also his two-time recognition by the Nigeria Agricultural Award as Governor of The Year in Agriculture, having initiated landmark projects like the Cargo airport, giving over 10,000 farmers fertilizers, palliatives and continued support across the state; supported young farmers with over 900 hectares of land preparation in 17 locations, with some 2,500 unemployed youths and farmers engaging in cassava production; and set up strategic partnerships with international development partners and farmers in large-scale cultivation of rice and cassava in 36 locations in 11 local government areas.

Abiodun is also credited with empowering 54 pilot youths in broiler production with each making a profit of at least N150,000 per cycle for three cycles. Observers point to the linkage of 4,462 participants to inputs and credit to the tune of N700m in the cassava value chain, the linkage of 1,065 participants to inputs and credit to the tune of N300m in the rice value chain.

The linkage of 800 participants to inputs and credit to the tune of N360 million under the Ogun State Government/Federal Government/IFAD Assisted Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), with 394 maize farmers, 54 rice farmers and 21 poultry farmers benefitting from the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) through the CBN. The construction of14 solar-powered water schemes in select local government areas, and the establishment of a rice processing centre in Eggua, among others.

The Ogun West is one particular senatorial district, Governor Abiodun is banking on for huge votes, although the senatorial district have not produced a Governor since the creation of Ogun stage, but they have had the likes of Olurin, Gboyega Isiaka who have contested for governorship but luck was not to be on their side.

Recall that Senator Adeola Olamilekan, otherwise known as Yayi also showed interest in the Ogun State Gubernatorial race even before Governor Abiodun but each time he is close to declaring his ambition, politics comes to play. Yayi has used this opportunity in the last 6 years to get close to his people and also attending to their needs, which has earned him a lot of Followers. He is no doubt loved by all in Ogun West, and although he has not declared his ambition to contest for Ogun West senatorial district, but those who are on the know understands that the word West to West means coming from Lagos West and back to Ogun West. While Senator Amosun. and Senator Yayi don’t see eye to eye, Governor Abiodun has made sure that Senator Yayi is on his team. Recall that some of Yayi’s loyalists were one of the first set of people who got political appointments when Governor Abiodun assumed office, inside source revealed that the Governor holds Yayi in high esteem and he cherishes their relationship which will also work for him in the gubernatorial election. Yayi will campaign for Ogun West senatorial district and also deliver his senatorial district for the Governor. Come 2023, Yayi will be playing a key role in tbe gubernatorial election while also campaigning for his Ogun West senatorial ambition. With Yayi, the Governor is rest assured that Ogun West will be delivered in his favor. But Senator Tolu Odebiyi who might also be considering to return back as Senator representing Ogun West will also be dancing to Senator Amosun’s tune, as he is back with his team and it is said that he will be working hand in hand with Amosun’s choice as the next governor of Ogun State.

Recall that few months ago, former Governor Gbenga Daniel decamped from PDP to APC. One need not be told that he has ambition to run for Ogun East senatorial district, but with the unrest in PDP, he can only actualize his ambition by contesting under APC. He has always been friends with Governor Abiodun, their friendship goes way back. But they have became even closer than before lately. Governor Abiodun will also be counting on OGD to win Ogun East come 2023, OGD has been a favorite in Ogun East, uptil today his great achievements still speak for him and he sure will be banking of his goodwill from when he was Governor which will also play a key role in Governor Abiodun’s second term.

In March, former speaker Dimeji Bankole dumped PDP for APC and his decision was the talk of the town. Many people believe he joined APC to actualize his ambition of representing Ogun Central senatorial district, knowing fully well, Amosun and Dapo Abiodun don’t see eye to eye, contesting under APC will unseat Amosun or anyone contesting from Amosun’s camp. And although Dimeji Bankole has not declared or made his intentions known, but political analysts in the state have summed it up that, Government Abiodun might also be banking on Dimeji Bankole to win Ogun Central in the gubernatorial election.

Let’s not forget that Governor Abiodun has become the rallying point for APC faithfuls and fortunes in the state and has been working hard to sustain that shift. No doubt another thing that is giving the Governor leverage is his character and Omoluabi principles and also the way he has been able to manage the complex party issues that have arisen since May 29, 2019 when he came onboard.

Vice President Osibajo is also on the list of those Governor Abiodun is counting on to return back to office in 2023. Recall that during the last Ogun gubernatorial election, Gov Abiola and Vice President Osibajo’s relationship was tried but Osibajo stood by Governor Abiodun and looking at the level of their relationship as we speak, the same thing will come to play in the coming election.

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Politics

Akeweje Olayinka Fafoluyi: The Compassionate Grassroots Mobiliser Poised to Redefine Representation in Irepodun

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As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the forthcoming primaries in Irepodun Local Government, the conversation surrounding credible, accessible, and people-oriented leadership has continued to dominate public discourse. Among the distinguished personalities attracting widespread admiration and growing acceptance across the constituency is Akeweje Olayinka Fafoluyi, a vibrant grassroots politician whose steadfast commitment to humanity and community advancement has earned him immense respect among the people.

Akeweje Olayinka Fafoluyi has consistently demonstrated that leadership transcends political rhetoric and should instead be anchored on tangible service to the people. During his tenure as the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Executive Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, he utilized the privilege of his office not for personal aggrandizement, but as a strategic platform to uplift countless individuals across Irepodun Local Government and beyond. His stewardship reflected uncommon humility, dedication, and an enduring passion for community development.

Beyond official responsibilities, Akeweje distinguished himself as a philanthropist driven by genuine compassion for the welfare of the people. Through personal sacrifice and selfless investment, he facilitated the installation of solar-powered streetlights in Irepodun Local Government, thereby improving security and enhancing socio-economic activities. In another remarkable gesture, he personally financed the construction of a befitting Corpers’ Lodge to provide conducive accommodation for members of the National Youth Service Corps posted to the area, a development widely applauded by residents and stakeholders alike.

His humanitarian disposition did not begin with his aspiration for elective office. Long before declaring interest in representing Irepodun Constituency at the Kwara State House of Assembly, Akeweje had already cultivated a culture of consistent assistance to vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly. Inspired by the “Owo Arugbo” initiative championed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, he replicated similar interventions within the local government by extending financial support and relief packages to aged men and women across different communities.

One of the most remarkable testimonies to his compassion and social responsibility was the recent empowerment programme through which approximately 800 women across Irepodun Local Government benefitted from financial disbursement and support initiatives. The intervention not only alleviated economic hardship among beneficiaries but also reaffirmed his reputation as a leader deeply connected to the struggles and aspirations of ordinary citizens. For many residents, the programme further reinforced the belief that Akeweje possesses the empathy and practical understanding required for effective legislative representation.

In addition to his philanthropic exploits, Akeweje Olayinka Fafoluyi has continued to distinguish himself as a unifying force within the political and social landscape of Irepodun. His relationship with the youth constituency remains exceptionally cordial, as he consistently advocates for youth inclusion, empowerment, and productive engagement. He has also maintained profound respect for traditional institutions while sustaining harmonious relationships with party elders, stakeholders, and community leaders, qualities many believe are indispensable for stable and progressive representation.

As the people of Irepodun prepare to make crucial decisions during the forthcoming party primaries, many political observers have continued to emphasize the need to rally behind individuals with verifiable records of service, accessibility, and grassroots impact. In this regard, Akeweje’s name continues to resonate strongly among supporters and community members who view him as a dependable figure that has remained consistently available to the people, even without occupying elective office.

Indeed, Akeweje Olayinka Fafoluyi represents the embodiment of compassionate leadership, visionary service, and grassroots connection. He understands the realities confronting the people because he has walked closely with them over the years, offering support where necessary and standing firmly with them during challenging moments. Having already demonstrated remarkable capacity and sincerity through personal initiatives and community interventions, many believe he possesses the competence, character, and dedication needed to effectively represent Irepodun Constituency at the Kwara State House of Assembly without disappointing the trust and confidence of the people.

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2027: Lagosians Unite For Tinubu As Lawmaker Declares Bid

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Thousands of Eti-Osa residents in Lagos at the weekend declared their support for President Bola Tinubu, governorship hopeful Obafemi Hamzat and a member of the State House of Assembly, Noheem Adams ahead of the forthcoming elections.

Those who attended the event included the Central Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Eti-Osa headed by Engr. Murphy Adetoro, a member of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC).

Others are the chairmen of the three local government areas of Eti-Osa constituency 1, APC ward chairmen, traditional rulers and the Lekki Residents Association who had all earlier adopted Adams, a majority leader of the Lagos Assembly, as the party’s consensus in the area.

Speaking at the event, the Central Working Committee declared ‘no vacancy’ at the presidency and the House of Assembly while maintaining its support for Hamzat as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s successor.

They declared that unlike in 2023, Tinubu will win Lagos in 2027 as the people have become more resolute in their support for the president.

Commending the crowd at the rally, Adetoro said the Central Working Committee of APC in Eti-Osa axis and all the LG chairmen in the constituency had written to the party endorsing Noheem Adams

“Thus, on the day of the primaries, we will all be behind him. What we are doing today is a rehearsal of what is going to happen on the day of the primary election,” he said.

“We are publicly declaring our support for President Tinubu whose achievements speak volumes. We have also started working to ensure the victory of Engr. Obafemi Hamzat who will take over from our active governor.

“Some days ago, we all wrote to the APC leadership in Lagos endorsing our son, Noheem Adams, as consensus.

“We are again confirming our decision that he remains our Recognised candidate. We have seen what he has done at the House of Assembly and we can attest to the fact that he has done wonders, beyond our expectations,” he said.

Another leader and former lawmaker, Yahaya Dosunmu, expressed hope that the next Speaker would emerge from the constituency. “If we have number one and two outside, we are supposed to have three.

“I have been attending campaigns since I was 30, but this level of support is exceptional and confirmation that you truly love Noheem and are ready to continue to support him at the primary and general elections,” he said.

On his part, Alhaji Sulyman Bello, President of the Lekki Estates Residents and Stakeholders Association (LERSA), said the lawmaker enjoys the support of the entire residents of the constituency.

According to him, Adams has become a rallying point for residents in Eti-Osa.

“What many do not understand is that Noheem Adams is not just for Eti-Osa but the entire Lagos State.
There was an estate that was to be demolished. He stood for us and ensured that the estate was not demolished.

“With his position at the House, it is dangerous to send a fresh member. By God’s special grace, we want to see him beyond the seat of Majority Leader,” he declared before the crowd while confirming an earlier letter the association sent to the APC endorsing him.

Meanwhile, the Arewa group in the constituency said they had mobilised 1500 members from the three councils in the area to support the lawmaker.

In his remark, Adams thanked the leaders, traditional rulers and constituents for their support describing the endorsement as a challenge to do more when re-elected.

He also thanked Tinubu for opening up the constituency with a coastal road adding that this feat has earned the President “massive love from the people of my area.”

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Ward Tour: Akeweje Flags Off Cash Support for Widows, Older People in Oro Ward 2

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•Says 800 widows and older people across Irepodun LGA will benefit

The aspirant for Irepodun Constituency in the forthcoming 2027 Kwara State House of Assembly election, Akeweje Olayinka Fafoluyi, has taken his ward tour to Oro Ward 2 in Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, where he flagged off his N10,000 cash support initiative for widows and older people.Akeweje, who was warmly welcomed by stakeholders, APC faithful, and supporters, distributed N10,000 cash support each to about 50 widows and older people present, noting that the initiative would benefit 800 widows and older people across wards in Irepodun LGA.Speaking to stakeholders and APC faithful in Oro Ward 2, Akeweje first appreciated them for welcoming him to their midst, after which he unveiled his plans for Irepodun and urged them to support his ambition to represent the constituency at the Kwara State House of Assembly so that he can actualise the plans.“Our beloved Irepodun deserves quality representation and purposeful leadership that will facilitate development projects for our constituency, empower our hardworking youth and women, offer employment opportunities to our graduates, and support our older people, including widows.“All these are achievable under purposeful leadership. This is why I am seeking your full support to represent Irepodun at the Kwara State House of Assembly in 2027. Together, let us build a stronger and more united Irepodun where every ward and community has a voice and benefits from responsive and accountable representation,” Akeweje said.The stakeholders and party faithful present took turns to commend Akeweje for his vision for Irepodun Constituency. They also appreciated him for the cash support he offered to widows and older people in the ward and wished him success in the forthcoming APC State House of Assembly primaries.

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