Adebutu reaches out to Ogun traditionalists, promises local government independence

The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, Ladi Adebutu, has asked traditionalists and elders in Egbaland for their prayers and support as the 2027 governorship election approaches.

Adebutu made this appeal on Tuesday during his visit to the Oloje traditionalist community in Abeokuta. This visit is part of his efforts to connect with stakeholders across Ogun State.

The PDP candidate, accompanied by his political team, promised the traditionalists that his government, if elected, would focus on accountability, peace, and wise management of public funds.

He said, “I am assuring the people that if we are supported to be at the helm of affairs in the state in 2027, our government will prioritise accountability and prudent management of our collective resources.

“We shall put the people first and we will deliberately pursue rapid development from the grassroots. Therefore, we shall ensure that the funds meant for each local government are released to the councils for effective administration and rural development.”

Adebutu, who identifies as a devoted Christian, stated that his faith does not stop him from recognizing the importance of traditional institutions in fostering peace, unity, and harmony in society.

During the event, the PDP House of Representatives candidate, Toyin Amuzu, urged the people to vote for the party at all levels. He said the PDP has shown commitment to developing Abeokuta and Ogun State.

Amuzu mentioned that the PDP facilitated the provision of a transformer to the community. He also expressed concern about the lack of attention to electricity issues in some areas of Abeokuta.

He stated, “Someone who can extend a hand of fellowship to you will continue to extend it to you. Someone who cannot extend their hand to you will not give you anything. Please, let us vote for the PDP.”

Amuzu cautioned voters not to be tempted by money offered during elections, warning that accepting such gifts could lead to problems after the election.

“Do not let them give us money on election day and ask us to go and cook soup, only for us to suffer for another four years. We will not suffer anymore, by God’s grace,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the Akinfiwatolu of Egbaland, High Chief Mustapha Adulakeem Owolabi, called on traditionalists and residents to support what he called a new political movement. He believes this movement can bring better representation and attention to Egbaland.

Owolabi urged the people to reject political tricks and focus on what is best for Egbaland ahead of the 2027 election.

“Collect their money and vote for Ladi Adebutu,” he told the crowd, encouraging them to vote according to their conscience.

He emphasized that the people of Ogun State should be free to choose their leaders, stating that the government must reflect the desires and identity of the people.

One of the traditional elders, Olawale Akanbi, Ọmọlẹ́gbẹ́, mentioned that the Oloje community welcomed Adebutu mainly to offer him prayers and blessings for his political journey.

He noted that voting is the main way for the people to choose their leaders.

He said, “The reason we received him as a guest is that we, the ‘Oloje’, want to offer him our prayers and blessings, so that the prayers will be answered and he may reach his destination.”

Another elder, Chief Gbenga Adesina, Ojediran Fajegbinro, spoke about how Adebutu’s visit shows recognition of traditional religion practitioners as important members of society.

Adesina expressed satisfaction that Adebutu reached out to them after meeting with other religious groups, including Christians and Muslims.

He said, “They met with the Pastors, and they met with the Imams. And they also recognised the practitioners of the Isese religion. All of us together make up the community.”

Adesina then declared his support for the PDP candidate, stating that traditionalists would back politicians who engage with them.

“It is whoever comes to seek us out that we will support. Honourable Ladi Adebutu came to meet us right now, so he is the one we see. All our votes, he is the one we will cast them for,” he said.