Thousands of Yewa indigenes in Ogun West senatorial district gathered at Tetede Hall in Ilaro to endorse Oladipupo Adebutu, the PDP governorship candidate, for the 2027 election. The event drew a massive crowd of PDP supporters and local groups who declared their unwavering support for Adebutu, insisting on a "true Yewa son" as governor. Chief Akinbami Lukman, a leader of the Believe Movement from Imeko Afon Local Government, spoke on behalf of his group, affirming their decision to back Adebutu in the interest of the Ogun people and the party's agenda. He pledged active support to ensure every vote counted in the candidate's favour.
Jimoh Azeez, leader of the youth group Door to Door Foot-Soldiers, declared that Nigerian youths had become more enlightened and would use their votes decisively in 2027. He emphasized mobilization, voting, and standing by the results, warning that traditional political maneuvers would no longer work. "They can continue to go round leaders, traditional rulers. We are the ones on the field. They will be shocked," Azeez said. He stressed the need to protect Yewa's claim to the governorship with no controversy. Other speakers highlighted the Adebutu family's longstanding support for the poor, even without holding public office, and expressed confidence that Adebutu would ensure state resources benefited all if elected.
The Awori indigenes also voiced their support, stating they were not aligned with any political party or district leadership but were backing Adebutu as the candidate who would protect the dignity of the state. Adebutu responded by thanking the crowd for the overwhelming reception, saying he was humbled by the love shown from the streets of Ilaro to the event venue. He noted that had candidates like Gboyega Isiaka or Abiodun Akinlade emerged under other parties, the race would have been tougher. Adebutu reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Ogun West, stating, "I am very happy with the determination that I am seeing here. These are the people and democracy is for the people. Talk with your votes. We only have one state and we must protect our heritage." His entourage was received earlier at the palace by the traditional council.
Adebutu claims to be humbled by grassroots support while referencing past backing of other Yewa candidates under different parties, raising questions about consistency in his regional loyalty. His acknowledgment that a race against Isiaka or Akinlade would have been difficult suggests the endorsement is as much about identity as policy. The youth's vow to stand by their votes signals a shift in political engagement that could reshape Ogun West's electoral dynamics. This growing emphasis on local ownership may pressure all candidates to prioritize regional representation over party alignment.
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