In continuation of his consultation and engagement with stakeholders in the state ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), on Friday held a consultation meeting with the Egba League of Imams and Alfas in Abeokuta.
The consultative visit aims to foster dialogue on unity, community development, and the state’s future.
The meeting, which was held at the iconic Egba Central Mosque in Kobiti, Abeokuta, served as a platform for Senator Yayi to articulate his vision for Egbaland and Ogun State as a whole was well attended by key Islamic clerics, led by the chief imam of Egbaland, Sheikh Muhammed Sa’ad Alade Bamgbola and prominent sons and daughters of Egba.
Presenting Senator Adeola Yayi and the Deputy Governorship candidate, Mrs Abiodun Adegunwa-Balogun, to Egbaland Muslim leaders, Ogun State APC Chairman, Alhaji Yemi Sanusi, explained that their support has been crucial to the successful outings of former APC governors in the state, and urged them to give the senator their unwavering support with their votes and prayers.
“Your support and prayers helped in 2019 and 2023. We have come to seek your prayer and support for Senator Adeola Yayi to become the governor of Ogun State in 2027. We solicit your support for his emergence as governor. And when we get there, we will be here to seek your prayer for a successful administration,” Sanusi added.
Speaking during the engagement, Senator Adeola Yayi emphasised that his aspiration to lead the state is rooted in a commitment to serving the citizens of Ogun State, regardless of religious or political affiliation.
He lauded the religious leaders for their critical role in maintaining peace and stability in the state, noting that sustainable progress can only be achieved in an environment of harmony.
“My visit today is not to campaign, but to listen and reassure our esteemed religious leaders that our governance model will be inclusive and fair to all. Ogun State belongs to all of us. Whether you are in the cities or at the grassroots, my focus is to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every home. I have completed projects across the state to meet people’s needs. I do these because God has given me the privilege to do them.
“I am aware of the plan to renovate and expand this iconic mosque. I hereby make a personal contribution of N150m to be transferred instantly to the mosque’s bank account. In addition, I promise to renovate the road leading to this mosque, and work will start almost immediately. Where I am today, considering what I have been through, is by the grace of the Almighty God. This has happened because of prayers from people like you: Alfas, Imams, and Muslims faithful. I plead your support and prayers, and together we will build a state that will benefit us all,” he said.
Speaking during the meeting, the Chief Imam of Egbaland, Sheikh Muhammed Sa’ad Alade Bamgbola, commended Yayi for his respect for tradition and proactive approach to stakeholder engagement.
He prayed that God would grant Yayi’s desire in accordance with his good plans for the state.
“If this is your wish and plan for Ogun State and Egbaland, may God grant your heart’s desires. Egba is 54% of Ogun State and should be treated fairly. When you become governor, ensure you keep your promises to Egbaland without also depriving the other communities in the state,” the Chief Imam said.
Among the dignitaries who attended the meeting were the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Olusegun Elemide, Former Deputy Governor, Ogun State; Alhaja Salmot Badru; Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, popularly known as “Omoyayi”; Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako; Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Ogun State, Mr Olaolu Olabimtan; and Chairman, Abeokuta North Local Government, Honourable Lanre Oyegbola.
