Politics

2027: APC’s Oyo North Senate Ticket – A Race to Watch

Published

7 months ago

December 11, 2025

As political activities steadily intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, the unfolding contest within the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Oyo North senatorial ticket has become one of the most engaging political conversations in Oyo State. What initially appeared to be a settled matter has reopened dramatically following the declaration by the incumbent, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, that he will not seek a fourth term at the National Assembly. Buhari, who has served three consecutive terms and maintained a broad influence in Oke-Ogun and some parts of Ogbomoso, has instead shifted focus to the 2027 governorship race—a move that has reshaped political permutations within APC.

File photo : Senator Abdulfatai Buhari,

For over a decade, Buhari’s stabilising presence gave APC a reliable advantage in Oyo North. His vast constituency outreach, signature empowerment schemes, and his ability to connect with the average voter contributed to the party’s dominance across the district. His decision not to re-contest has, however, reignited longstanding agitation within Oke-Ogun, whose stakeholders have consistently argued that the senatorial seat had been over-concentrated in Ogbomoso. With Buhari acknowledging the evolving political expectations and redirecting his ambition toward Agodi Government House, the road to 2027 has become wide open.

Oyo North, comprising thirteen local government areas spread across Ogbomoso and Oke-Ogun zones, is renowned for its political diversity and shifting alliances.Oyo North, comprising thirteen local government areas spread across Ogbomoso and Oke-Ogun zones, is renowned for its political diversity and shifting alliances. Its LGAs—Atisbo, Irepo, Iseyin, Itesiwaju, Iwajowa, Kajola, Ogbomosho North, Ogbomosho South, Olorunsogo, Orelope, Ori Ire, Saki East, and Saki West —host distinct political tendencies that often determine outcomes at both primary and general elections. With Buhari’s exit, attention has now shifted to three major aspirants whose growing activities, consultations and subtle mobilisation have set the stage for a high-stakes internal contest.

One of the most prominent names is Professor Adeolu Akande, a lawyer, journalist, political scientist and former Chief of Staff to the late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi. Akande, who also served as ex-Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), remains one of the most intellectually grounded figures in Oyo APC.

Prof. Adeolu Akande

Akande is from Otu, in Itesiwaju local government. His experience cuts across national politics, public administration and regulatory governance. He previously served as Deputy Chief Press Secretary to Vice President Atiku Abubakar in 2001 before becoming Special Assistant on Research and Communication Strategies to President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2003. With such a robust background, many within APC view him as a candidate who can elevate the district’s legislative relevance in Abuja. His appeal lies in his technocratic depth, policy expertise and the strategic calm. The major challenge he faces, however, is the absence of electoral history. Unlike other aspirants who have been repeatedly tested at the polls, Akande must convince delegates that the sophistication of his administrative record can translate effectively into political deliverables at the grassroots. Nevertheless, his early consultations suggest that he is already consolidating structures across Oyo North and strengthening bonds with critical party actors whose influence often shapes delegate loyalty.

Another strong contender is Mrs Hannah Olawunmi Ogunesan, a former Head of Service (HOS) in Oyo State and a respected administrator from Saki East Local Government.

Mrs. Hannah Ogunesan

Known for her firm yet inclusive style during the Ajimobi administration, Ogunesan commanded significant influence across the state’s civil service and political structures. Her involvement in identifying, mentoring and empowering political office holders, especially in the zone during her tenure has given her a strong grassroots presence, and also among women and civil service-oriented political blocs. Her candidacy introduces a compelling gender dimension in a district historically dominated by male politicians. Reports within political circles suggest she enjoys quiet goodwill from the presidency, especially through her relationship with First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and that of late governor’s wife, Chief Florence Ajimobi. This has contributed to growing excitement among women’s groups and party members eager to see greater female representation at the federal level. Yet, like Akande, Ogunesan will have to overcome the perception of being new to direct electoral contests. She must intensify her engagements and demonstrate that administrative discipline can be transformed into political structure strong enough to win a senatorial primary and general elections.

In a related development, her relationship with the incumbent occupant of the seat, Sen. Buhari could be referenced to as an added advantage to her political aspiration.

The third formidable aspirant is Hon. Kareem Tajudeen Abisodun, popularly known as ‘Were’, a three-term member of the House of Representatives.

Hon. Tajudeen Kareem Abisodun Were

Representing Saki West/Saki East/Atisbo Federal Constituency. Tajudeen Were, is believed to have built a loyal constituency network anchored on continuous grassroots engagement which has given him rhythmic electoral victories. His current role as Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation Technology has further elevated his profile and broadened his connections within the national assembly. His biggest advantage lies in his electoral pedigree; he has survived tough contests and won repeatedly, making him the most field-tested contender among the trio. Across Saki East, Saki West and Atisbo, he is believed to be able to influence an impressive delegate base that may provide a strong launchpad into the primaries. However, while his political machinery is solid in parts of Oke-Ogun, he must expand his influence beyond his familiar territory into Kajola, Iwajowa and Ogbomoso axis, among other several local governments within Oyo North Senatorial district, where political loyalty is often determined by long-term relationships, not federal-level visibility. Without broadening his coalition, he faces the risk of a limited geographical advantage in a race that requires district-wide consolidation.

Beyond the individual strengths of the aspirants, the APC contest in Oyo North is deeply tied to internal power configurations. Stakeholders at the state level, including influential members of the late Ajimobi’s political family, Abuja-based powerbrokers and strategic party elders across Oke-Ogun, will be decisive in determining who secures the ticket. The influence of Senator Buhari remains particularly significant. Though now focused on the governorship, his political structure—built over twelve years—may tilt the scales in favour of an aspirant whose emergence does not conflict with his broader generational ambition. Delegates, under the APC’s primary framework, hold immense power. How the aspirants navigate ward leadership, LGA executives and zonal caucuses will ultimately decide their fate.

Grassroots mobilisation remains the heartbeat of electoral success in Oyo North. The district’s political culture demands consistent local engagement, especially with farmers, artisans, traditional rulers, youth organisations, market unions, religious leaders, community leadership and development associations. Any aspirant hoping to emerge must match or surpass the level of penetration Buhari achieved. This includes organising town hall meetings, expanding ward structures and articulating development plans that resonate across the district’s socio-economic landscape.

Funding will also shape the race. Senatorial contests require robust financial capacity to mobilise supporters, maintain campaign offices, fund consultations and execute strategic outreach. Akande’s connections in both public and private sectors, Ogunesan’s blended support across civil service networks and women-based organisations, and Kareem’s constituency-driven structure all present varying financial strengths. Yet, the campaign’s effectiveness—not just capacity—will be the determining factor.

As the primaries inch closer, the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the general election. A united APC increases the likelihood of retaining the seat, but a divisive or poorly managed primary could trigger internal fractures, defection of aggrieved blocs or parallel mobilisation that opposition parties may readily exploit. APC must present a strong, cohesive front if it hopes to maintain control in 2027.

The race for the APC ticket in Oyo North stands today as a defining moment for the party. With a technocrat in Akande, a barrier-breaking administrator in Ogunesan and a seasoned legislator in Kareem, the contest presents a rich blend of intellectual capacity, gender representation and electoral competence. Whoever emerges must not only win the trust of delegates but also articulate a vision capable of uniting a politically diverse district.

As political manoeuvres intensify, alliances broaden and silent negotiations unfold, Oyo North remains one of the most intriguing battlegrounds to watch ahead of 2027—an arena where experience, ambition and strategy will ultimately determine the future of APC’s dominance.

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Politics

2027: Bunvic Has Edge in Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Reps Race – Agbomojo

Published

7 days ago

July 7, 2026

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A political observer and public affairs commentator in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Oladejo Ezekiel Agbomojo, has said former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Olusegun Dokun Odebunmi, popularly known as Bunvic, is currently better positioned than other aspirants to reclaim the Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 general election.

Agbomojo, who is from Ogbomoso North Local Government Area of Oyo State, stressed that he is not a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying his position was based on his independent assessment of the political atmosphere in the constituency and feedback gathered from residents, community leaders and other stakeholders.

Speaking on political developments ahead of the 2027 general election, Agbomojo said Bunvic’s experience, grassroots acceptance and long-standing relationship with the people had given him an advantage over other aspirants seeking to represent the constituency in the House of Representatives.

According to him, the former lawmaker’s previous tenure in the Green Chamber provided him with the legislative experience and understanding required to address the developmental needs of the constituency.

He also identified Bunvic’s relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as one of his major political strengths, expressing optimism that such ties could facilitate the attraction of more federal projects, appointments and developmental opportunities to Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency if elected.

Agbomojo further commended Yeyeluwa Toyin Odebunmi, wife of the APC candidate, describing her as a compassionate woman whose humanitarian interventions have continued to earn admiration across the constituency and beyond.

He said her empowerment and outreach programmes have impacted women, youths, students and other vulnerable groups in different communities, adding that her activities have complemented her husband’s political efforts and further strengthened his acceptance among the electorate.

He also attributed Bunvic’s growing political advantage to what he described as renewed unity within the APC.

According to him, the cordial relationship between Bunvic and respected party leaders, including Senator Ayo Adeseun, as well as the emergence of the APC deputy governorship candidate from Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency, had further boosted the party’s prospects ahead of the 2027 elections.

Describing Bunvic as one of the most accessible and generous politicians in the Ogbomoso zone, Agbomojo said the former lawmaker had remained close to the people and consistently demonstrated a willingness to support individuals and communities whenever the opportunity arose. He added that his interactions with residents across the constituency indicated a growing belief that Bunvic deserved another opportunity to represent them at the Green Chamber.

“I am not speaking as an APC member because I am not one. This is simply my personal opinion based on what I have observed and the views I have heard from many people across Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa,” he said.

“From my interactions with residents, many believe Bunvic has the experience, the political connections and the grassroots support needed to represent the constituency effectively once again,” he added.

While expressing confidence in Bunvic’s chances, Agbomojo urged the former lawmaker to place greater emphasis on tackling youth unemployment if elected. He acknowledged Bunvic’s previous empowerment initiatives but maintained that sustainable job creation should remain one of his major priorities.

“Hon. Bunvic has done well in supporting young people through different empowerment initiatives, and I acknowledge those efforts. However, I want him to place even greater emphasis on employment generation because many of our youths are still searching for jobs. Creating sustainable employment opportunities should remain one of his major priorities if elected,” he said.

Agbomojo also called for increased Federal Government presence in Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency through the establishment of more federal institutions, infrastructure projects and programmes capable of creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. He said attracting more federal projects would not only improve residents’ standard of living but also create opportunities for young people and local businesses.

“I strongly believe Hon. Bunvic has what it takes to attract meaningful federal projects because of his experience, his relationships within government and his understanding of the needs of our people. What Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency needs now is greater federal presence, improved infrastructure and more employment opportunities for our youths,” he stressed while maintaining that his views were entirely personal.

He, however, said the electorate would have the final say, urging political actors to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns that would promote the development and prosperity of Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency.

Politics

Oyo: Makinde presents staff of office to new Alakufo of Akufo

Published

2 weeks ago

June 28, 2026

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The Oyo State Government on Friday presented the staff and instruments of office to the new Alakufo of Akufo in Ido Local Government Area, Engr. Lamidi Taoreed Ayankojo Adefisoye.

The presentation, held at the Ido Local Government Secretariat, followed the approval of Adefisoye’s appointment by Governor Seyi Makinde.

A memo dated June 24, 2026, from the state Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, titled “Re: Filling of Vacant Stool of Alakufo,” conveyed the governor’s approval.

The memo, with reference number CB141/152/4T/119 and signed by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Kola Abiola, on behalf of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, stated that the appointment took effect from October 23, 2023.

It read in part, “I am directed to inform you with great pleasure that His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, has graciously approved your appointment as the Alakufo of Akufo with effect from October 23, 2023.”

The staff of office was presented to the monarch by the Chairman of Ido Local Government, Sheriff Aderemi Adeojo, alongside Abiola, who represented the state government.

Dignitaries at the ceremony included the Head of Local Government Administration in Ido, Alhaji Sarafadeen; the Director of Chieftaincy Matters in the council, Mr Adelu; the head of the Adefisoye family, Mogaji Nurudeen Adegbola Adefisoye; the head of the Okekegan family of Akufo, Asiwaju Tunde Black; and Alhaji AbdulAzeez AbdulSalam.

Speaking after receiving the staff of office, Adefisoye expressed appreciation to Makinde, the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, and the Ido Local Government chairman for their support.

He also thanked the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, and all those who contributed to the successful completion of the selection process.

The monarch expressed gratitude to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and members of the Olubadan-in-Council for their support throughout the process.

He pledged to work closely with the state and local governments while promoting peace and development in the community.

Adefisoye promised to prioritise infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, youth and women empowerment, investment, security, transportation, and the preservation of Akufo’s cultural heritage.

He called on indigenes of the community, both at home and abroad, to unite in support of efforts aimed at accelerating the development of the town.

“I accept this honour with humility and a deep commitment to serve. This is not my vision alone; it is our collective mission. I invite all sons and daughters of Akufo, at home and abroad, to join hands with me in building a peaceful, united and prosperous community for future generations,” he said.

Politics

Oyo South market men, women back Oseni, Tinubu, hail N90m support

Published

3 weeks ago

June 25, 2026

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Market men and women across Oyo South Senatorial District have declared support for the senatorial ambition of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the district, Engr. Aderemi Oseni, and reaffirmed their backing for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The traders said their endorsement was driven by the lawmaker’s sustained grassroots interventions and what they described as his people-centred representation.

‎The endorsement came on Monday during an interactive engagement in Ibadan with market stakeholders drawn from the nine local government areas of the senatorial district.

At the event, Oseni supported market men and women across the district with N90 million, with each of the nine local government areas receiving N10 million to boost petty trading, expand businesses and stimulate grassroots economic activity.

‎In a statement by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the lawmaker said the intervention was part of efforts to improve livelihoods and deepen economic inclusion, particularly among small-scale traders.

Oseni, who represents Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and chairs the House Committee on the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), said empowering market operators remained central to his development agenda.

‎He said markets remained the heartbeat of local communities, noting that traders’ resilience continues to sustain families and drive local economies.

“This intervention is aimed at strengthening their businesses, easing economic pressure and encouraging enterprise at the grassroots,” he said.

The APC chieftain added that his representation would continue to focus on practical interventions with visible impact.

‎“Leadership must translate into visible impact. I remain committed to initiatives that support small businesses, create opportunities for growth and complement the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

Oseni also canvassed support for President Tinubu among traders in Oyo South, saying stronger alignment between federal, state, senatorial and local government leadership would accelerate development in the state.

‎He listed the Tinubu administration’s initiatives to include the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND, measures to curb industrial actions in tertiary institutions, tuition-free technical colleges, construction and rehabilitation of major highways, agricultural support programmes and subsidies for cancer treatment, fuel subsidy removal, which he noted has boosted state and local government revenues.

‎He urged traders to mobilise support for APC candidates in the next general elections, expressing confidence that Tinubu’s re-election would further improve residents’ welfare.

Speaking on behalf of the traders, the Coordinator of Market Men and Women in Oyo South Senatorial District and Babaloja of Omi-Adio and Ido Local Government, Chief Odedele Waheed, commended the turnout and described the engagement as a demonstration of confidence in Oseni’s leadership.

He lauded the lawmaker for sustained grassroots development efforts, noting that the N90 million support would strengthen businesses across the district.

‎Odedele also commended the leadership of market men and women in Oyo State for granting traders approval to meet and interact with the lawmaker, saying the platform allowed them to express concerns and understand his vision for Oyo South.

The traders pledged to mobilise support across markets in the district in favour of Oseni’s electoral bid and President Tinubu’s re-election.

‎Those present included the Babaloja of Ibadan North East, Ibrahim Balogun; Babaloja of Ibadan South West, Rafiu Iyo; Babaloja of Ibadan North West, Alhaji Tajudeen Hammed; Alhaji Abdulraman Salawudeen; Asiwaju Oloja of Ibarapa Zone, Chief Okanlawon John Adebisi; Babaloja of Ibadan North, Chief Adewole Basirat; and Iyaloja of Ibarapa Central, Chief Ige Fausat, among others.