Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State on Friday introduced the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola and his running mate Mrs. Kudirat Abiodun Adegunwa-Balogun to the Ijebu Traditional Council.
The presentation at the Awujale's Palace in Ijebu-Ode sought the blessing of royal fathers as the 2027 election approaches.
Abiodun explained that two guiding principles shaped his choice of Adeola as his successor: equity and competence. He stressed that Ogun West Senatorial District deserved to produce the state's governor for the first time since Ogun was created 50 years ago.
"I was not looking for a third term, but for somebody who would comfortably step into my shoes and continue to build on what we have achieved from day one," the governor said. He added that finding the right candidate from Ogun West was both fair and just.
"In the last 50 years since the creation of Ogun State, no son of Ogun West has had the opportunity to serve as governor," Abiodun noted. "In Senator Solomon Adeola, I have found all the qualities I have been looking for."
The governor reminded the traditional rulers of the prayers and support they offered him before the 2019 election. He asked them to extend the same goodwill to Adeola.
"The same way you prayed for me in 2018 and have continued to support me over the past seven years, I ask that you extend the same prayers and support to him," he said. "I can confidently assure you that he will not disappoint the people of Ogun State."
Abiodun also championed support for Adegunwa-Balogun, calling her an accomplished professional whose corporate background would strengthen Adeola's leadership. Her experience would prove valuable to the ticket, he argued.
The governor highlighted his administration's delivery on promises made to Ijebu's traditional rulers before he took office. Many had been completed while others remained in progress.
He pointed to the reconstruction of the Ijebu-Ode-Epe Road as proof of commitment to the area. The Federal Government's takeover of Tai Solarin University of Education also demonstrated his administration's dedication, he noted.
Ogun Waterside's transformation through strategic infrastructure and economic projects represented another achievement, Abiodun said. The area had endured years of abandonment before his administration turned attention to it.
In response, Adeola pledged to build on Abiodun's accomplishments and pursue major economic ventures. These projects would unlock the full potential of Ogun Waterside, he promised.
The APC candidate vowed to make Ogun an oil-producing state through commercial oil exploration activities. He committed to facilitating the establishment of a deep seaport in the region.
Adeola also promised to revive the Olokola Liquefied Natural Gas project, which had stalled. He framed these initiatives as crucial to the state's economic growth and development trajectory.
