The political atmosphere in Ona Ara Local Government came alive with renewed energy and optimism as Hon. Oluwafemi Abolade, popularly known as Yerima, formally declared his intention to seek the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket for the Oyo State House of Assembly seat.
The declaration, which took place at the PDP Secretariat in Ona Ara, drew an impressive gathering of party faithful, grassroots leaders, women groups, and key stakeholders, reflecting the deep-rooted support Yerima commands within the constituency. The venue was filled with chants of “PDP Power!” echoing three times in unison, alongside his widely recognized campaign slogan, “Ade Ori Okin Ko Jo Teye Keye,” a phrase that has steadily become a symbol of his movement.
Yerima arrived at the Secretariat with a strong entourage of political allies and community leaders, including Hon. Moruff Olawale Tijani (Ward 7 Councillor), Hon. Muritala Tijani (Ward 11), Hon. Kayode James (Ward 6), Hon. Oluwatobiloba (Ward 5), and Hon. Idris Ayoade (Ward 10), among others. Also present was Hon. Olatunbosun Olanrewaju from Ibadan North East, further underscoring the broader political goodwill surrounding his declaration.
In a moment that captured the essence of his political journey, Yerima was formally invited to address the gathering and state the purpose of his visit. Speaking with conviction and emotion, he declared:
“I have all my investments in Ona Ara. I started politics in 1999, and I have never left my people. My decision has always been to stay close to my community because that is where I belong.”
His words resonated strongly with the audience, many of whom see him as a consistent and accessible leader—one who has remained embedded within the community, unlike others perceived to only reappear during election cycles.
The Chairman of the PDP in Ona Ara Local Government, Alhaji Kehinde Adeyemo, in his remarks, affirmed Yerima’s long-standing political relevance and credibility. He highlighted that Yerima is far from a newcomer, noting his political journey dating back to 1999 as a member of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), and later as a member of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), where both men once shared political alignment.
To further validate Yerima’s candidacy, the Chairman called on serving councillors present to speak on his ambition. In unanimous agreement, three councillors took turns to commend Yerima, describing him as a man who understands the true needs of the people and has consistently demonstrated commitment to grassroots development. Their endorsements reinforced the perception of Yerima as a leader who not only knows his constituency but feels its challenges firsthand.
The event also witnessed overwhelming support from women leaders and groups, who openly embraced his ambition with songs of praise and visible enthusiasm. Their participation added a vibrant and emotional dimension to the gathering, signaling strong acceptance across key demographic groups within the local government.
Observers at the event noted that Yerima’s declaration goes beyond a routine political announcement—it reflects a calculated and deeply personal commitment to service. His long-standing presence in Ona Ara, combined with his investment in the community and sustained political engagement, positions him as a formidable aspirant within the PDP.
As the 2027 electoral cycle gradually approaches, Yerima’s message is already gaining traction: a call for representation rooted in consistency, proximity, and genuine understanding of the people’s needs.
With his declaration, the political conversation in Ona Ara has unmistakably shifted—and if the energy at the PDP Secretariat is anything to go by, Yerima’s ambition may well redefine the dynamics of the upcoming contest.
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