Adebtu’s bid for the governorship ticket was formally confirmed on Sunday in Abeokuta after party leaders, senior executives, and other key stakeholders agreed to back him as the single flag bearer of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to contest against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking right after he was unveiled, Adebutu used his acceptance remarks to thank party members for the confidence they have shown in his leadership. He also drew a comparison with the bitterly contested gubernatorial contest in 2023.
“I want to sincerely thank you all—our leaders, executive members across every level, stakeholders, and every member of our party—for the clear decision to present my humble self as the consensus candidate and flag bearer for the people of Ogun State in the 2027 general elections, in the same way you stood by me in 2023. We believe we secured victory through your votes, but it was taken away through manipulation,” he said.
Looking ahead to the next election, he added: “This time in 2027, I trust God that your votes will count, and they will place me in office as your duly elected governor.”
Adebutu also acknowledged the internal process that produced his selection, praising other PDP aspirants who agreed to step aside for what he described as the broader interest of the party.
He argued that the PDP’s chances of winning the seat at government in Ogun depend on unity within the party and maintaining peaceful conduct throughout the campaign.
“In the spirit of unity, let me—on behalf of all the candidates you have also chosen by consensus at different levels—thank our brothers and sisters who pursued various positions but, for the corporate interest and future success of our party, chose to make concessions and withdraw for our collective benefit and lasting peace,” he said.
“None of us is a loser. We have all gained for our party and for the good people of Ogun State.”
Despite describing Ogun State’s advantages, including its strategic location and access to natural and human resources, Adebutu said residents continue to face serious hardship.
He said the APC has governed Ogun for more than fifteen years under different labels, adding that the administration has kept the state “under siege” while citizens struggle. He argued that although the region is blessed with resources and sits in a favorable part of the country, it still requires leadership marked by competence, creativity, and clear direction.
“The All Progressives Congress (APC) has been in charge in Ogun State for over a decade and a half under different arrangements, keeping our dear state under siege while our people suffer hardship. Even though we live in abundance and have been blessed with both natural and human resources, we also occupy a strategic and geographically important position within the country, yet our state is still in urgent need of leadership that is capable, innovative, and guided by purpose,” he said.
Presenting the 2027 race as a “must-win” contest for the opposition, Adebutu told residents that the PDP is ready to present a different governance plan. He said the party’s official policy framework will be released in due course.
“Our shared responsibility now is to work towards returning our party to the seat of power at Oke-Mosan, so we can pull our people out of suffering and poor administration,” he said.
Newer 2027: Adebutu Emerges as PDP Consensus Governorship Candidate, Vows to Rescue Ogun from APC
Older
2027: Adebutu Emerges as PDP Consensus Governorship Candidate, Vows to Rescue Ogun from APC
