The Leader of Councillors in Ona Ara Local Government and respected grassroots political mobilizer, Hon. Oluwafemi Abolade Gabriel (Yerima), has congratulated the Deputy Governorship Candidate of the Action People's Movement (APM), Engr. Muftau Open Salawu, on his emergence as the party's running mate ahead of the 2027 Oyo State Governorship Election.
In a statement made available to the press, Yerima described the development as a clear indication that APM remains one of the most organized and prepared political parties in Oyo State.
According to him, the peaceful conduct of the party's primaries without petitions, disputes, or internal crises demonstrates the level of unity and maturity within the party's structure.
"APM appears to be the most settled political party in Oyo State today. The party has successfully concluded its primaries, produced candidates for various positions without rancor, and has even gone ahead to unveil its deputy governorship candidate. This is a strong signal of preparedness and commitment to democratic principles," Yerima stated.
The Ona Ara political leader further commended the Oyo State Chairman of APM, Otunba Fagbemi Adegbenro, for officially presenting Engr. Muftau Open Salawu as the party's deputy governorship candidate to Governor Seyi Makinde and Honourable Bimbo Adekanmbi, describing the move as a strategic step toward strengthening the party's electoral chances.
Yerima noted that the selection of a running mate from Ogbomoso reflects political inclusiveness and could further consolidate support for the party across different zones of the state.
He added that all indications suggest that the race for Oyo State Government House in 2027 is gradually taking shape, with political parties positioning themselves ahead of what is expected to be one of the most competitive elections in the state's history.
Speaking on the broader political landscape, Yerima observed that Governor Seyi Makinde's Omituntun administration appears determined to pursue a succession agenda, a move that could potentially make Oyo witness a rare political transition where a sitting governor successfully hands over to a chosen successor.
"The 2027 election will be historic for many reasons. Oyo State will witness, for the first time in recent history, a serious attempt by a governor to transfer power to a successor within the same political family. The political dynamics are already unfolding," he said.
The councillors' leader also stressed the importance of political stability and continuity in governance, citing states that have maintained consistent party structures over the years as examples of how long-term political planning can contribute to infrastructural and economic development.
Yerima urged political actors across party lines to place the interests of the people above personal ambitions and ensure that the democratic process remains peaceful, transparent, and issue-driven.
He concluded by wishing Engr. Muftau Open Salawu success in his new role while expressing confidence that the people of Oyo State would ultimately make their choices based on competence, vision, and capacity to deliver good governance.
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of 2027, stakeholders believe that leaders with strong grassroots connections such as Hon. Oluwafemi Abolade Gabriel (Yerima) will continue to play significant roles in shaping political conversations and mobilizing support across local communities, particularly in Ona Ara Local Government where his influence continues to grow.
0 Comments