The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of growing anxiety over the rising political influence of its 2027 governorship candidate, Oladipupo Adebutu, as the state prepares for the next general elections. In a statement released on Sunday, the PDP Youth Leader, Comrade Lukman Ejalonibu, argued that the APC’s repeated focus on Adebutu reveals deep-seated concerns about his growing popularity and grassroots support. He emphasized that Ogun residents are increasingly ready for a new political direction and that no amount of propaganda can halt the “winds of change” sweeping across the state.
Ejalonibu’s remarks came in response to comments made by Olamide Lawal, Special Assistant on Youth Development to Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, during a recent television appearance. Lawal claimed that Adebutu is not a credible threat to the APC, citing his lack of political strength and performance record. He also pointed to the state’s zoning arrangements as a factor that diminishes Adebutu’s chances of succeeding Governor Abiodun in 2027. However, the PDP youth leader dismissed these claims as contradictory and politically motivated.
According to Ejalonibu, the fact that the APC continues to devote significant time and media attention to Adebutu proves his rising influence and acceptance among Ogun voters. “It is both amusing and contradictory that the same APC which claims Adebutu is ‘not a threat’ continues to devote so much time and energy to discussing him,” he stated. He added that no political party would waste valuable airtime attacking an opponent it considers irrelevant or insignificant.
The PDP youth leader also defended Adebutu’s record as a former member of the House of Representatives, highlighting his constituency interventions, educational support programmes, youth empowerment initiatives, and community development projects. He described Adebutu as an “authentic son of Ogun State” whose commitment to the people predates his electoral ambitions. Ejalonibu stressed that Adebutu’s deep-rooted connection with the electorate makes him a formidable candidate in the upcoming governorship race.
Furthermore, Ejalonibu criticized the APC for relying on zoning arguments instead of engaging in substantive debates on pressing issues such as unemployment, infrastructure, and economic hardship. He argued that democracy should be a contest of ideas, competence, and public trust, not excuses born out of fear. “If Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu truly poses no threat to the APC, there would be no reason for the ruling party and its spokespersons to make him the centrepiece of their political conversations,” he added.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the PDP remains focused on mobilizing support for credible alternatives and promoting inclusive, people-centred governance. The party’s actions and statements signal a growing confidence in its ability to challenge the APC’s dominance in Ogun State. The political landscape in the state is expected to become increasingly dynamic as both parties intensify their campaigns and outreach efforts.
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