Ogun 2027: Deputy Governor Clashes With Senate Leader Over Abiodun’s Succession
By Oludare Joshua
Political tension is escalating in Ogun State as Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele have engaged in a public dispute over the succession plan for Governor Dapo Abiodun ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election.
The controversy erupted following Bamidele’s appearance at a political forum organized by Ogun State Professionals for Senator Solomon Olamilekan in Ilaro, Yewa South Local Government Area. During the event, the Senate Leader called for unity among leaders from Ogun West Senatorial District to rally behind a single gubernatorial candidate, openly endorsing Olamilekan as the most suitable choice for the position.
Bamidele praised Olamilekan, popularly known as Yayi, describing him as a highly marketable and widely respected chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He subsequently moved a motion proposing Olamilekan’s adoption as the preferred candidate from the Ogun West axis.
The endorsement, however, drew sharp criticism from Deputy Governor Salako-Oyedele, who swiftly cautioned Bamidele against what she termed interference in Ogun State’s internal political affairs. She emphasized that the decision on Governor Abiodun’s successor would be determined solely by the governor himself and party leaders within the state, effectively dismissing external influence in the succession process.
In a related development, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Adekunle Salako, has come to Bamidele’s defense, asserting the Senate Leader’s right to express his views on APC political matters, including those concerning Ogun State.
Dr. Salako described Bamidele as eminently qualified to comment on such issues, highlighting his distinguished background as a legal practitioner, human rights activist, and seasoned politician with considerable national influence. The minister argued that as a prominent national stakeholder within the APC, Bamidele has every right to voice opinions on party affairs beyond his home state of Ekiti, noting that political developments in any state could have significant implications for the ruling party at the national level.
The escalating disagreement underscores the growing political maneuvering within Ogun State’s APC as stakeholders position themselves ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial contest.
