Some indigenes of Ogun State living in Enugu State have expressed support for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group made its position known on Friday during a reception held for the PDP deputy governorship candidate in Ogun State, Hajia Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo, who was in Enugu for the 22nd All Nigeria Editors’ Conference.
Speaking at the event, the group’s chairman, Dr Lekan Oladapo, said members had studied the manifesto of the PDP governorship candidate, Oladipupo Adebutu, and were convinced that he and Kolapo were committed to the development of Ogun State.
Oladapo said the state had not achieved the level of development he believed it should have attained and called on indigenes to support what he described as a change in government in 2027.
“Ogun State, by all standards, is not where it should be, to be candid. We are far behind where we should be at this stage. But we have vowed to get it right in the 2027 general elections,” he said.
He said members of the group were prepared to mobilise indigenes and participate in the election, adding that some had transferred their voter cards or completed fresh registrations in Ogun State.
“The 2027 votes for the PDP will be without sentiments. We will mobilise heavily. We will sensitise our various communities, areas and zones and we will vote,” Oladapo said.
He also highlighted areas he believed required greater attention, including infrastructure, tourism and the development of herbal products for export.
Oladapo said Ogun State could generate more revenue by promoting its historic sites, including those in Abeokuta and Ijebu-Ode, while developing policies to support local producers and expand access to international markets.
He also praised Kolapo’s record and described her as a suitable running mate for Adebutu.
“You are a virtuous daughter of our land and we have read so much about you. For those who have met you in person or interacted with you, they have been full of commendation,” he said.
Responding, Kolapo thanked the group for the reception and expressed appreciation for its support for the PDP and the party’s candidates.
She said the Adebutu family had a long history of supporting people in Ogun State and pledged that commitments made during the election campaign would be honoured if the PDP took control of the state.
“We all know the antecedents of the Adebutu family, their indisputable love for the people of Ogun State. Without being in government, they have been empowering the people, even beyond what the government has done,” Kolapo said.
She said she believed the policies of an Adebutu-led administration would translate into development for residents of the state.
Kolapo also urged members of the group to continue mobilising ahead of the 2027 elections and encouraged voters not to be intimidated.
“I am indeed humbled by this short but significant reception for me. I only came to attend the NGE conference as a member of the Guild. I never expected this kind of reception by my people,” she said.
She added that she would convey the group’s message to Adebutu and thanked its members for their support.
