By Kolawole Olayinka, Abeokuta
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State, Ladi Adebutu, on Wednesday received a rousing welcome from thousands of Yewa indigenes and party supporters during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Ilaro, Ogun West Senatorial District.
The gathering, attended by community leaders, stakeholders and PDP faithful across Yewa land, reaffirmed support for Adebutu’s governorship ambition ahead of the 2027 election.
Speaking at the meeting held at Tetede Hall, Ilaro, a leader of the Believe Movement from Imeko-Afon Local Government Area, Chief Akinbami Lukman, said the group resolved to support Adebutu’s aspiration in what he described as the overall interest of Ogun State.
Representing members of the movement, Lukman pledged the group’s commitment to mobilising support for the PDP candidate and ensuring that every vote counts during the election.
Also speaking, the leader of the Door-to-Door Foot Soldiers, Mr. Jimoh Azeez, expressed confidence that Nigerian youths would play a decisive role in the 2027 governorship election.
“We will mobilise, vote and defend our votes. The political class should realise that this is a new era. They may continue to engage political leaders and traditional rulers, but we are the ones on the ground. They will be surprised by the outcome. We will work to ensure Yewa’s aspiration is realised with a credible son of the soil,” he said.
Other speakers at the event praised the Adebutu family’s philanthropic contributions, saying the family had consistently supported the less privileged even without holding public office. They expressed confidence that Adebutu, if elected governor, would ensure the state’s resources are used for the benefit of all residents.
Representatives of the Awori community also declared their support for Adebutu, describing him as a leader capable of protecting the dignity and progress of Ogun State.
In his response, Adebutu thanked the crowd for what he described as an overwhelming show of love and solidarity.
He said he was deeply encouraged by the reception he received from the moment he entered Ilaro until he arrived at the venue of the meeting.
Adebutu noted that he had previously supported the governorship aspirations of prominent Yewa politicians, including Gboyega Isiaka and Abiodun Akinlade, when they contested under different political platforms.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Ogun West Senatorial District and Ogun State as a whole.
“I am encouraged by the determination and enthusiasm I have seen here today. Democracy belongs to the people, and your votes remain your strongest voice. We have only one Ogun State, and together we must protect and develop our common heritage,” he said.
Earlier, Adebutu and members of his entourage paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the traditional ruler in Ilaro, where they were received by members of the traditional
