2027: Ife Constituency Urged to Back Experience and Loyalty Over Opportunism

 

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, stakeholders in the Ife Federal Constituency are being urged to prioritize experience, loyalty, and proven leadership in selecting their next representative at the National Assembly.

This call was made by Hon. Deji Adefisayo, a former Councilor representing Ilode Ward 1 in Ife East Local Government, who emphasized the need for the constituency to avoid what he described as “trial-and-error representation” in the next political dispensation.

According to Adefisayo, the time has come for the people of Ife and its environs to align with a candidate who not only understands the legislative terrain but also possesses the political network required to attract meaningful development to the constituency. He identified Hon. Rotimi Makinde as a standout figure whose track record and long-standing commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC) position him as the ideal candidate for the job.

Adefisayo noted that Makinde’s history with the ruling party demonstrates unwavering loyalty and dedication, qualities he believes are essential for effective representation. He argued that unlike newcomers who often lack institutional knowledge and party integration, Makinde’s deep-rooted connections within the APC at both state and federal levels would translate into stronger advocacy and quicker access to developmental opportunities.

“Hon. Makinde is not a novice in legislative matters. He understands how the system works and has built relationships that can be leveraged for the benefit of Ife people,” Adefisayo stated. “His familiarity with key decision-makers at the national level gives our constituency an added advantage in terms of project facilitation and policy influence.”

Highlighting Makinde’s political foresight, Adefisayo referenced his involvement in the early formation of the South West Agenda (SWAGA23) in 2020, describing it as a testament to his commitment to regional progress and strategic planning.

He further stressed that Makinde’s consistent presence in the political space and his alignment with the current administration would ensure that Ife Federal Constituency is not sidelined in the distribution of federal resources and infrastructural projects.

As the 2027 elections approach, Adefisayo cautioned party leaders and grassroots members against yielding to what he termed “money politics” and opportunistic aspirants seeking to capitalize on the electoral process without genuine commitment to the people.

“We must resist the temptation of short-term gains offered by money bags and instead focus on long-term development. Loyalty, consistency, and service should be the criteria for leadership selection,” he said.

He also called on APC leaders within the constituency to send a clear message that dedication to the party will be recognized and rewarded, rather than undermined by last-minute entrants with little or no contribution to the party’s growth.

In his closing remarks, Adefisayo urged constituents to rally behind a candidate who embodies experience, credibility, and a vision for sustainable development.

“As a people, we must get it right this time. The future of our constituency depends on the choices we make today. Supporting a tested and trusted leader like Hon. Makinde is a step toward ensuring that democracy truly delivers dividends to our communities,” he concluded.