Adebutu Claims He Can Change Ogun State

The Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Ogun State, Oladipupo Adebutu, has rejected claims from critics that he cannot govern the state. He believes his more than thirty years of experience in business, agriculture, and politics have prepared him to lead Ogun.

Adebutu also defended himself against claims that he only benefits from his father’s wealth, billionaire businessman Kensington Adebutu. He stated that he has created successful businesses, generated jobs, and contributed to economic growth through his investments in agriculture and agro-processing.

Speaking at a media event in Abeokuta on Monday, the PDP governorship candidate said he has used his personal resources to support humanitarian efforts and community development since he entered politics in 1992.

The event included the state PDP chairman, Abayomi Tella; the party's deputy governorship candidate, Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo; and former senator Iyabo Obasanjo, among other party leaders.

Responding to accusations about his background, Adebutu said being born into a wealthy family should not be seen as a bad thing. He argued that what truly matters is how people use the opportunities available to them.

“Unfortunately, many stories have been made up about me and my intentions. Some critics say I just rely on my family’s success or that I have achieved nothing myself.

“To them, I say this: none of us chooses the family we are born into. If someone is lucky enough to come from a successful family, should that be a reason for shame? Certainly not.

“What is important is how we use the opportunities we are given. I have invested my resources to build businesses, create jobs, and help economic growth,” he said.

Adebutu described himself as one of Nigeria’s top practitioners in animal husbandry, with major investments in livestock farming and meat processing. He said his farms have created jobs while supporting food production and community development. He also mentioned that he provided livestock to vulnerable people during the COVID-19 pandemic to help ease the economic hardship caused by the crisis.

On governance, the PDP candidate said insecurity is the biggest challenge facing Nigeria. He promised to make security a priority if he becomes governor in 2027.

“The main challenge facing Nigeria today is insecurity. That is why security is our top agenda. We cannot build a prosperous society without ensuring the safety of lives and property,” he stated.

He revealed that he has supported security agencies with logistics, including fuel and vehicle maintenance. He stressed the need for better security infrastructure in communities.

Adebutu also called for more independence for local governments. He said grassroots development has suffered because of too much state control over local councils.

“Local governments were meant to bring governance closer to the people. The idea was good, but its execution has often been poor.

“The decline began when local government elections became tightly controlled at the state level. As local governments lost their freedom and accountability to the people, they became less effective,” he noted.

He emphasized that sustainable development will be hard unless local governments are allowed to operate independently and transparently.

The PDP candidate also shared plans to invest in rural infrastructure, healthcare, education, electricity, and agriculture. He described agriculture as a key source of jobs and wealth for the state.

He urged reforms in the education sector, stressing the need for more vocational training, entrepreneurship, and digital skills.

“Too often, we produce graduates who struggle to find jobs because their skills do not meet job market demands.

“Education must go beyond just academic qualifications. It should include vocational and technical training, entrepreneurship, digital skills, and practical life skills,” he added.

In her comments, Sowunmi-Kolapo asked journalists to ensure fair reporting and called on residents to support the PDP’s vision for governance in the state.

Iyabo Obasanjo, who recently rejoined the PDP, said the party is focused on the people's welfare and real development. She believes the PDP will win the 2027 governorship election. She added that development should be measured by improvements in people's lives, not just the number of projects completed.

According to her, respect, integrity, and credibility were reasons she left the ruling party for the opposition.

“As a true Yoruba person, being disrespected is one of the worst things that can happen to me. I felt disrespected where I was, and it is my right as a human being to leave that environment and find a new path,” she said.

Tella also rejected suggestions that the party is weak. He insisted that the PDP is strong and ready for the 2027 governorship election.

“Contrary to what some people said yesterday, the PDP is alive, strong, and active. Those who claimed the PDP was dead can now see for themselves that the party is very much alive and thriving,” he said.

Tella described Adebutu as a grassroots politician who has long been committed to Ogun State and its people, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the state.