The All Progressives Congress consensus governorship candidate in Ogun State, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, has intensified moves to consolidate party unity ahead of the 2027 elections, holding strategic meetings with key stakeholders including Iyabo Obasanjo Bello and Sarafa Tunji Ishola.
Adeola first paid a courtesy visit to Obasanjo Bello at her residence in Abeokuta, in what observers described as a significant step toward strengthening cohesion within the party.
Obasanjo Bello, a former governorship aspirant, had earlier congratulated Adeola on his emergence as the APC consensus candidate, publicly declaring her support through a press statement.
The meeting, attended by her loyalists and political associates, was opened by former Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Salmot Badru, who commended Obasanjo Bello’s contributions to governance and public service.
Speaking during the visit, Adeola described the meeting as a show of appreciation, noting that reconciliation was unnecessary given her early support.
“I am here to thank my sister and to assure her that we will work together. I am ready to align with her vision and ensure that, collectively, we take Ogun State to the next level,” he said.
He praised her tenure as senator representing Ogun Central, saying her performance remains widely respected, while assuring her supporters that his administration would be inclusive and accommodating to all stakeholders.
Adeola added that her ideas and policy contributions would be integrated into his agenda, stressing that no group would be sidelined.
In a related development, the APC candidate also met with stakeholders aligned with former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Sarafa Tunji Ishola, during a high-level engagement in Abeokuta.
The meeting, which had in attendance party loyalists including Pa Joju Fadairo, was convened to foster unity and address concerns surrounding the party’s consensus process.
In his remarks, Ishola described the gathering as one of committed party faithful, admitting concerns over the lack of consultation before the emergence of the consensus candidate. He, however, commended Adeola for the visit, noting that it reflected leadership and a willingness to unite the party.
Responding, Adeola acknowledged the concerns and appreciated the stakeholders for their openness, reiterating his commitment to inclusive leadership.
“I am here to seek your support and to assure you that this project belongs to all of us. I am ready to work with everyone to move Ogun State forward,” he said.
Pa Joju Fadairo, in his remarks, expressed confidence in Adeola’s candidacy, describing it as divinely inspired, while reaffirming his long-standing support for the Ogun West governorship agenda.
In his closing remarks, Ishola said the unity displayed by stakeholders signals the beginning of a new political phase, expressing optimism that Adeola’s emergence would help end internal divisions within the party.
The engagement extended beyond the indoor meeting, as Adeola addressed more than 20 support groups gathered outside the venue, including members from outside the APC.
In a strong show of solidarity, the groups unanimously dissolved their structures and adopted Adeola as their preferred candidate through a voice vote, citing party unity, respect for the consensus decision, and the need for political stability.
The meetings ended with prayers and renewed assurances of support, as Adeola reaffirmed his commitment to sustained engagement and inclusive leadership across Ogun State ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
