Politics

APC guber ticket: Pendulum swings toward Tegbe, as horse race to Agodi govt. house intensifies

Published

8 years ago

September 21, 2018

EVERY election has a central story which usually gets tailored by summary of voters’ intelligence based on ground reports as per their political ideologies and faith.

As the battle for the sole ticket of Agodi Government House heightens, different aspirants struggling for the coveted governorship seat in the state on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, (APC) are currently intensifying great efforts toward the realisation of their dreams.

Mega Icon Magazine obtained the recently conducted survey by the Independent Political Analysts on the disposition of the stakeholders in Oyo politics and general public on the political development in the state and who among the aspirants in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC ) in the state is likely to emerge as the party flag bearer.

The report signed by its Project Coordinator, Mr John Akinropo and Secretary, Idowu Ayobami informed that the survey was to ascertain the level of acceptability and popularity of these notable aspirants among the stakeholders at the grassroot and the delegates that will participate at the ‘delegates conference’ billed for September where a sole candidate would emerged as the standard bearer of the party and indeed; becomes the next ‘Constituted Authority’ (CA).

So far, no fewer than 8 aspirants are ready for the task, according to the survey.

Without any iota of doubt, all the 8 aspirants jostling for the party ticket are eminently qualified and enjoy supports from different quarters and have their group of canvassers mobilizing for them in all the nooks and crannies of the state, but the survey also revealed that only a few enjoys strong support base beyond Ibadan land.

Having obtained the APC nomination and expression of interest forms, the 8 prominent aspirants that are brave and courageous enough to succeed Governor Abiola Ajimobi are:

Dr. Azeez Adeduntan

Barrister Adeniyi Akintola

Otunba Adebayo Alao Akala

Engr Olasunkami Tegbe

Chief Bayo Adelabu

Dr. Olusola Ayandele

Barrister Adebayo Shittu

Mr Ayo Kareem

Also, the survey says 5 out of the 8 aspirants are from Ibadan, the zone which houses the largest voting population, while the remaining 3 shared other geopolitical zones in the state, including Oke ogun , Ogbomoso and Ibarapa. This correctly indicates that the Oyo zone is not represented in the contest.

“Interacting with stakeholders during the survey, 3 out of the aspirants were at the forefront and considered to have a better chance above others based on popularity, cognate experience, political affiliation and relationship with the party. Since the delegates conference is not a tea party, the financial strength of the aspirants will also go a long way in determining who clinch the ticket”, the project coordinator, Akinropo noted.

Although they appear to have the same ambition of emerging as the governor of the state, they however, have different Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats.

According to the survey, the Ogbomoso born politician and former governor of the state, Otunba Adebayo Alao Akala, who joined the party in 2017 enjoys rhythmic popularity in the state. The political Juggernaut and city spender who maintains a sizeable number of followers in the state is known to be generous.

However, his political camp is not as strong as it was in 2015, but withers day by day as some of his loyalists, lieutenants recently joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), while others remained in the PDP. Majority of Akala’s loyalists were unable to make the delegates list, but he is confident of securing some votes in Oke Ogun, Ogbomoso as well as few in Ibadan.

Chief Bayo Adelabu, an experienced accountant of repute who recently left the plum job as Deputy Governor of the apex bank in the country – the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is a young and dynamic personality. He is enjoying the support of the heirs and beneficiaries of the late Aare Arisekola Alao and Late Adegoke Adelabu. He has been consulting widely and making headway into the party through generous donations and financial support for the party at all levels.

His philanthropic gesture seems to be opening doors for him. Adelabu is more popular outside the party, especially among the ‘Ibadan establishment’ with a notion that he would be controlled by these personalities at the detriment of the hoi polloi (common people), which may negate the unitary intention of the party and the development of other zones, if he eventually becomes the next governor of the state.

The ex- CBN Deputy Governor, Adelabu, according to the survey, also lacks strong political backup at the party level, as most of his supporters and strategists are new breed politicians; while, a few of them – ‘ the self -acclaimed politicians’ are not participating directly in the selection of the party flag bearer. However, based on his financial strength as a ‘fat cat’, Adelabu may likely win some delegates in Ibadan, and probably gather, a few votes in Oke-ogun, Oyo and Ibarapa.

Joseph Olasunkami Tegbe is multi-skilled. His experience is diverse and varied having provided advisory services to states and federal government in Nigeria and West Africa on good governance, administration, quality assurance, policy formulation and implementation. He has also consulted for multinational organisations and non -governmental organisations. This is informed by his background as a first class civil engineer and a top rated chartered accountant.

His foray into politics started over a decade ago. Tegbe has been operating behind the scene. Some of the participants in the random sampling maintained that the silent philanthropist, Tegbe is one of the strong members of the SENACO group, whose members dominated the delegates list that will participate in the indirect primary. At least 80% of the SENACO members made the list, an edge over other aspirants. His background as a relationship expert and conflict manager has also enhance his acceptability as he parades experienced and highly cerebral political strategists.

Party members also posited that the next governor is likely to be an Ibadan Christian following the codified resolution of the major opposition parties in the state to present an Ibadan Christian, since the incumbent governor, Abiola Ajimobi who is billed to complete his second term tenure next year, is a Muslim, the survey observed.

From all indications, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is likely to present Engr Seyi Makinde, while Senator Olufemi Lanlehin is set to clinch the ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Only Engr Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, Adeniyi Akintola SAN seem to be favoured by this tradition.

Further report emanating from the analysis and empirical study of the political arrangement and development among the party stakeholders, also submitted:

Ogbomoso: Former Governor Adebayo Alao Akala holds 40% of the delegates while the SENACO group can conveniently boast of 60%,

In Ibadan, the SENACO holds 80 % and LAMISTS 20%

Oyo – SENACO 90%, Others 10%

Oke Ogun – SENACO 85%, Others 15%

Ibarapa – SENACO 70 %, others 30%

Conclusively, the reviewed status and political rating of the aspirants, clearly shows that the pendulum is seemingly swinging towards Joseph Olasunkami Tegbe and he is likely to emerge as the next gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo state and his emergence as the governor of the state lies in the ability of his team to consolidate on the strategy adopted to launder his image and manifestos, retain the commitment and loyalty of the party faithful and other aspirants, especially those that competed with him at the primaries amongst others

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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.