Mrs. Balogun, described by the Yayi Progressives Movement as a seasoned corporate executive and finance professional, has been named as the deputy governorship candidate alongside Senator Adeola, a pairing the movement says reflects the ruling party’s push for inclusion, competence and broader regional balance ahead of the 2027 elections in Ogun State.
In a media statement issued on Monday in Abeokuta, the state capital, the movement’s State Media Director, Oluseun Joshua, said the decision by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to pick Mrs. Balogun—whose maiden name is Adegunwa—was both strategic and commendable. The statement, signed by the movement’s Convener, Armstrong ‘Tope Akintunde, argued that the choice demonstrates the party’s commitment to representing different constituencies while ensuring that experienced leadership is placed in key roles.
Akintunde said the APC’s selection shows political judgment and an understanding of the varied interests that exist across Ogun State. He added that nominating Mrs. Balogun, the daughter of Alhaji Sulaiman Adegunwa—identified as a prominent industrialist, philanthropist, chairman of Rite Foods Limited and Asiwaju of Ijebuland—highlights the party’s intention to strengthen unity and deliver more equitable representation across the state’s geopolitical zones.
He pointed out that Senator Adeola is from the Ogun West Senatorial District while Mrs. Balogun is set to represent Ijebuland, saying the arrangement reinforces the APC’s stated commitment to a rotational approach. In the movement’s view, that balance could improve governance performance while also broadening the sense of belonging among residents.
Akintunde also celebrated the party’s leadership and top figures involved in the decision. He said he was “celebrating our respected leaders and principals,” naming Prince Dapo Abiodun (CON) and Senator Solomon Adeola, and praised the APC for “putting the right peg in the right hole,” arguing the ticket positions the APC strongly for the 2027 governorship contest in Ogun.
The convener said the impact of Alhaji Sulaiman Adegunwa’s work is widely felt, describing him as an icon of Ijebuland whose entrepreneurial efforts through Rite Foods have created opportunities and affected many lives. He argued that selecting his daughter as deputy governorship candidate further signals that the APC recognizes competence, public service and the importance of representation that spans different parts of the state.
Armstrong Akintunde further said the APC remains driven by unity, inclusiveness and shared political purpose, expressing confidence that Mrs. Balogun’s emergence as Senator Adeola’s running mate would strengthen the party’s prospects in the 2027 general election.
In the same statement, Hon. Olusegun Kaka, identified as the State Coordinator of the Yayi Progressives Movement, commended the APC leadership for efforts to strengthen its organisational structure and prepare for future electoral contests. Kaka said he is optimistic that the party will secure decisive wins in the 2027 general elections, pointing to what he described as the APC’s strong grassroots footprint, leadership credentials, and widening support across Ogun State.
Kaka maintained that the APC remains “the party to beat” in the state and said he believes its candidates will be victorious at every level of the election.
The Yayi Progressives Movement said it is renewing its commitment to grassroots engagement, political education and the promotion of progressive leadership across Ogun State. It added that the movement will continue to support policies and political actors it believes can deliver sustainable development, economic growth and inclusive governance for all residents of the state.
In a related note included within the movement’s release, Armstrong Akintunde also hailed Governor Abiodun and the APC leadership for selecting Kudirat as Adeola’s running mate.
