ABEOKUTA — On Monday, the Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) officially introduced Lateefah Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo, an experienced journalist, as its running mate for the upcoming 2027 gubernatorial election.
Kolapo, who holds the traditional title of Iya Suna of Egbaland, will share the ticket with the party’s governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu, during the polls.
During the announcement event at the PDP secretariat in Abeokuta, state party chairman Abayomi Tella expressed strong optimism that the party would secure a win in 2027. Tella emphasized that the PDP chose flagbearers who are authentic, native indigenes of Ogun State.
He stated that the hard work of the party’s leadership and the State Working Committee is finally paying off in a major way.
He added that everyone present could see the Ogun PDP is now primed to be a formidable contender in 2027. He went on to praise the party leaders for their relentless dedication to reaching this point, teasing that more positive developments are on the horizon.
He remarked that while opposing parties settle for lesser-known figures, the PDP targets heavyweights, a strategy he claims is proving successful and will continue to show results.
He praised the Adebutu-Kolapo ticket for consisting entirely of genuine locals, contrasting it with the opposition’s choice to bring in outside politicians who reside permanently in Lagos.
He declared that their campaign would center on the concept of “Ogun for Ogun,” questioning if voters are prepared to protect their heritage from outsiders by using their ballots to defeat them.
Sharing his thoughts, the PDP governorship candidate, Ladi Adebutu, noted that Kolapo’s selection was driven by the public’s desire for genuine representation and public service.
Adebutu expressed that the timing feels perfect, proudly noting that all forty candidates standing together represent a unified front with no weak links, describing them all as deeply committed and resilient.
He concluded by advising political observers and rivals that their current alignment proves everything happens in its own perfect, divine timing.
Taking the podium for her acceptance speech, Lateefah Sowunmi-Kolapo voiced her gratitude to the party leadership for placing their trust and confidence in her abilities. She called on the people of Ogun State to turn out in large numbers on election day, voicing absolute certainty that the PDP would win and take control of the government house at Oke-Mosan.
Speaking at the event, Iyabo Obasanjo advised voters to guard their ballots vigilantly to prevent a reoccurrence of the alleged electoral manipulation that took place in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
She maintained that Adebutu was unfairly denied victory in past cycles, reassuring the crowd that her active involvement within the party would help ensure their votes are protected this time around in 2027.
