The Chairman of the APC Oke-Ogun Community, Prince Ifekayode Akinbode, has dismissed criticisms by former Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello against Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, insisting that only the people of Ogun State have the constitutional right to determine the senator’s political future.
Akinbode, in a statement issued on Thursday, said Obasanjo-Bello’s remarks on Adeola’s political ambition were misplaced, stressing that democracy empowers the electorate, not individuals, to decide who occupies public office.
According to him, “First and foremost, it is the people of Ogun State, not Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello or any individual, who will determine Senator Adeola’s political ambition whenever the time comes. Democracy confers that responsibility solely on the electorate through the ballot box.”
The APC chieftain argued that political relevance should be measured by service to the people rather than public criticism, maintaining that Senator Adeola’s political journey has been defined by electoral success and grassroots engagement.
He said, “Unlike Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, Yayi, is a tested, trusted and accomplished legislator whose political trajectory speaks for itself. Since his first electoral victory in 2003, he has not lost a single election, a testament to the confidence reposed in him by the people across different constituencies.”
Akinbode also referenced Obasanjo-Bello’s unsuccessful bid to return to the Senate in 2011, arguing that it was inappropriate for her to question Adeola’s political acceptability.
“It is rather surprising that someone who could not secure the confidence of her own constituents when she recontested the Ogun Central Senatorial election in 2011 now seeks to lecture others on electability and public acceptance,” he said.
He further described Adeola’s growing popularity across Ogun State as a reflection of his legislative performance, constituency projects and commitment to human capital development.
“Beyond his impressive electoral record, Senator Adeola’s legislative accomplishments, constituency interventions and commitment to human capital development have endeared him to millions of Nigerians, including the good people of Ogun State. His growing acceptance across the state is a product of performance and service, not propaganda,” Akinbode stated.
The APC leader urged political actors to allow democratic institutions to function without undue interference, warning against comments capable of heightening political tension ahead of the 2027 elections.
“We advise Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello to respect the democratic rights of Ogun people, refrain from inflammatory statements capable of overheating the polity, and allow the electorate to exercise their constitutional right without intimidation or undue influence,” he added.
Akinbode expressed confidence that when the time comes, the people of Ogun State would make their choice based on competence, credibility, capacity and proven service, insisting that no individual could dictate the state’s political direction.
