Adejola Adeyemi Crown
The Chairman of the Youth Party in Ogun State, Ms. Olamide Okunowo, has declared that her immediate political focus is to secure victory for the party in the Ogun Central Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, while leaving the governorship contest to candidates of the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party.
Okunowo made the declaration in her Democracy Day message to party members, supporters and residents of Ogun State on Friday, urging Nigerians to remain committed to democratic principles and active civic participation.
According to her, the Youth Party is determined to provide a credible alternative political platform capable of addressing the aspirations of the people, particularly young Nigerians who seek purposeful leadership and accountable governance.
She said, “As we commemorate Democracy Day, I call on our members and the good people of Ogun State to remain steadfast in their belief in democracy. The strength of our nation lies in the willingness of citizens to participate actively in the democratic process and hold leaders accountable.”
The Youth Party chairman stated that while the battle for the Ogun State governorship in 2027 would feature major contenders such as the All Progressives Congress governorship hopeful, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), and the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, Hon. Ladi Adebutu, her concentration remains on ensuring a strong outing for the party in Ogun Central Senatorial District.
She stated clearly that well known citizens have approached the party to run for governor and other elective positions, but she described such moves as a waste of resources, urging other parties to leave the governorship battle ground to Ladi Adebutu, who is running for governor with generational wealth, and Yayi, who is running with unexplained wealth.
“Our focus is clear. We are working tirelessly to ensure that the Youth Party records victory in Ogun Central Senatorial District. Let those seeking the governorship test their popularity and strength at the polls. We are committed to building a movement that reflects the hopes and aspirations of ordinary citizens,” she said.
Okunowo further disclosed that the Youth Party is building a solid political structure in Ogun Central Senatorial District and expressed optimism that the structure is capable of delivering over 250,000 votes in the 2027 elections.
She added that many members of the Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress are reconsidering their alignment and are currently seeking a credible alternative political platform.
Okunowo noted that Democracy Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by many Nigerians in the struggle for democratic governance and the need to protect the nation’s democratic institutions.
She urged political actors across party lines to embrace issue-based campaigns, peaceful engagement and respect for the rule of law as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
“Democracy is not merely about elections. It is about justice, inclusion, transparency and the opportunity for every citizen to have a voice in governance. We must continue to strengthen these ideals for the benefit of future generations,” she added.
