Yusroh Lawal
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, a prominent Egba leader and Convener of the United Premier Movement (UPM), Chief Olalekan Shoyinka, has called on stakeholders from Ogun Central Senatorial District to put aside sentiments and unite behind a credible, proven candidate for the governorship race.
Shoyinka, in a statement titled “2027: A Clarion Call to Our Leaders and People in Egbaland”, warned against relying on sectional sentiments such as the trending “Awa Lokan” slogan, stressing that history shows that no past governor of Ogun State emerged purely on the basis of regional agitation.
“Ogun has been governed by four men since 1999—two from the East and two from the Central—none of whom secured the seat by appealing to ethnic or sectional sentiments. They rose through strong political platforms and popular support,” he said.
The Egba-born political strategist cautioned against supporting any aspirant from Ogun Central whose past records do not reflect tangible contributions to the development of Egbaland.
“We must learn from the past. Our next support must go to a seasoned, tested, and development-oriented Egba son or daughter whose track record clearly shows commitment to our people,” he stated, noting that infrastructural development in the region had suffered greatly in recent years.
Without naming names, Shoyinka hinted at a current federal appointee of Egba origin as a possible credible choice, describing him as a “new breed in leadership” who has demonstrated competence and integrity.
However, he was also realistic about the strength of contenders from other zones.
He cited Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu of Ogun East and Senator Solomon Olamilekan (Yayi) of Ogun West as dominant forces likely to secure PDP and APC tickets, respectively.
“If Egba leaders fail to unite behind a candidate with integrity and structure, it may be more pragmatic to align with these frontrunners. Both have demonstrated tangible goodwill towards the Egba people through development projects and outreach,” he added.
In his final plea, Shoyinka urged political leaders and the electorate across Ogun Central to rise above parochialism and act in the best interest of the region and state.
“It’s time to think strategically, not emotionally. We need a leader who can win beyond our borders and command the trust of other senatorial zones. No section can win alone in Ogun politics.”
Quoting a leadership maxim, he concluded, “The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers. Let us support someone who can truly lead and leave a legacy.”
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