Ajadi Fires Back at Olanrewaju Sowunmi, Defends APC's Choice of Yayi for 2027 Governorship Race

By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo 

ABEOKUTA — A prominent supporter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Ogun State, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), has launched a scathing attack on former party member Olanrewaju Sowunmi, accusing him of embarking on a "wild goose chase" and engaging in political opportunism following his recent criticism of the ruling party and its 2027 governorship standard-bearer.

In a statement issued on behalf of the Yayi Statewide Support Group, Convener Alhaji Fasiu Olaniyi Ajadi described Sowunmi's comments against the APC and Senator Adeola as unfortunate and misleading, alleging that the former party stalwart had chosen to jeopardize his political future by aligning with what he termed uncertain political ventures.

Ajadi said Sowunmi's conduct was particularly disappointing given the opportunities he had enjoyed within the APC, including his appointment into public office by the Ogun State Government.

"It is unfortunate that a young man who benefited immensely from the party and served as an appointee of the State Governor would now seek to disparage the same political platform that played a significant role in his political growth and development," Ajadi stated.

The APC supporter maintained that the ruling party remains committed to democratic ideals, fairness, equity, and justice, stressing that these principles informed the decision to zone the party's governorship ticket to Ogun West and ultimately support Senator Adeola as its candidate for the 2027 election.

According to him, the APC's choice of Adeola reflects the party's determination to field a candidate it considers highly qualified and broadly acceptable across the state.

Ajadi further claimed that contrary to suggestions of discontent within the party, APC leaders, former governorship aspirants, and stakeholders from Ogun Central and other parts of the state have rallied behind Adeola's candidacy.

"Today, all former gubernatorial aspirants, party leaders, and critical stakeholders across Ogun Central and the state are united in support of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola and are working tirelessly to ensure his victory in the February 2027 governorship election," he said.

The Yayi support group convener dismissed Sowunmi's departure from the APC as a personal political decision rather than evidence of any crisis within the party, describing it as a reflection of "instability of character" and political inconsistency.

He alleged that Sowunmi had been influenced by promises and inducements from his new political associates, choosing what he called short-term political gains over loyalty to the party that nurtured him.

Ajadi also claimed that a prominent son of Egbaland had previously rejected a substantial financial offer to become a deputy governorship candidate under another political platform, saying the decision demonstrated integrity and commitment to principle.

While he did not disclose the identity of the individual involved, Ajadi suggested that not all politicians exhibit the same level of restraint when confronted with financial incentives.

Reaffirming support for Senator Adeola, Ajadi emphasized the lawmaker's maternal connection to Egbaland and highlighted what he described as the senator's longstanding contributions to the development of Ogun State.

He portrayed Adeola as a self-made politician with a strong record of empowering people across different segments of society, insisting that the APC candidate enjoys widespread acceptance among residents of Ogun Central and Egbaland.

"Ogun Central and the people of Egbaland remain united in their support for our son, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), who has consistently contributed to the growth and development of Egbaland and Ogun State," Ajadi said.

As political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 governorship election, Ajadi called on residents of Ogun State to remain steadfast in their support for the APC and Senator Adeola, expressing confidence that the candidate possesses the vision, experience, and leadership qualities required to usher the state into a new era of growth and prosperity.

The exchange marks another chapter in the evolving political landscape ahead of the 2027 Ogun governorship contest, with parties and stakeholders already positioning themselves for what observers expect to be a fiercely contested election.

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