Odogbolu, Ogun State – Political alignments for the 2027 Ogun State House of Assembly election are taking shape in Odogbolu State Constituency as leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) intensify strategic consultations aimed at fostering unity and selecting a formidable candidate.
The consultations gained significant traction this week following a formal courtesy visit by a leading aspirant, Hon. Dennis Akinwale Ogunnaike, to the party’s elders and stakeholders across the local government. During the high-level meeting, Ogunnaike officially declared his intention to contest the Assembly seat and sought the blessings of the party leadership.
The gathering, which drew prominent figures from across the APC structure in Odogbolu, underscored the growing political momentum within communities including Aiyepe, Omu, Ibefun, Imosan, and Erinlu.
The meeting was attended by a cross-section of influential party stalwarts, including Baba Kalejaiye of Aiyepe, a member of the Governor’s Advisory Council; Alhaji Idris Lawal, Secretary of the Odogbolu Leaders and Elders Forum; Chief Ganiu Odunlami, former APC Chairman; and Alhaji S.A. Saliu, Zonal Leader of Ifesowapo. Also present were Chief Mrs. Oyinkansola Cole, Leader of Ward 5; Hon. Bola Odumosu, Ward 2 Leader; and the Executive Chairman of Odogbolu Local Government, Hon. Dr. Babatunde Diya, alongside former lawmaker Hon. Adebowale Ojuri.
Addressing the gathering, Ogunnaike—whose delegation was led by his father, former Odogbolu LG Chairman Engr. O.T. Ogunnaike—detailed his developmental track record and vision for the constituency. He highlighted facilitated employment for over 100 residents, the renovation of schools and primary health centres, and the installation of solar-powered boreholes within the area.
The aspirant explained that his ambition is anchored on ensuring equitable distribution of infrastructure across the 15 wards of the constituency and expanding economic opportunities through agro-processing linked to the Gateway Agro-Cargo International Airport.
“My aspiration is driven by the need to ensure that no ward is left behind in the distribution of development projects,” Ogunnaike told the gathering. “I am committed to aligning with Governor Dapo Abiodun’s ISEYA agenda to improve livelihoods through inclusive governance.”
Party leaders commended the aspirant for his respect for party hierarchy and his commitment to internal democracy. Baba Kalejaiye acknowledged Ogunnaike’s contributions to party logistics, including support for the renovation of the Odogbolu APC Secretariat, but emphasized that candidate selection would strictly adhere to established party procedures and principles of fairness.
Alhaji S.A. Saliu described Ogunnaike as a “grassroots politician committed to party ideals,” while community stakeholders expressed optimism that the early consultations would foster the unity needed to secure victory in the 2027 elections.
While no formal endorsements have been issued, political observers note that the flurry of activities signals an early and calculated effort by Ogunnaike to consolidate support across the three zones of Odogbolu Local Government. Party insiders say the focus remains on consensus-building and strengthening the APC’s cohesion ahead of the primaries.
