By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has reaffirmed his commitment to party unity and grassroots development, declaring that his ambition is driven by service and loyalty rather than personal gain.
Ajadi made this known on Monday during a strategic meeting with political leaders and stakeholders from Afijio, Atiba, Oyo East, and Oyo West Federal Constituencies. The meeting was held at Abiodun Atiba Area, Kosobo, in Oyo Town.
“I am deeply grateful for this gathering and the show of support,” Ajadi said. “This is not just about my ambition; it is about the collective progress of our party and the future of Oyo State.”
He also paid tribute to his political roots, saying, “I am proud to be a son of Chief Bode Amoo, and I remain committed to upholding the values of loyalty, service, and integrity that strengthen our party.”
Ajadi also used the opportunity to commend former Senator Monsurat Sunmonu for her enduring political influence and contributions to the growth of the Peoples Democratic Party in Oyo State.
He described her as a stabilising force whose leadership, experience, and commitment have continued to strengthen party unity and grassroots mobilisation. Ajadi noted that her role in nurturing cohesion within the party remains invaluable, adding that her guidance has helped sustain the PDP’s structure and relevance across the state.
In her remarks, former Senator representing Oyo Central, Monsurat Sunmonu, called for unity and steadfastness among PDP members, stressing that the party’s strength lies in its cohesion, particularly ahead of future electoral contests.
“We have received several aspirants across all levels—Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate, and governorship,” Sunmonu said. “At this moment, what is important is for us as party members to remain united, steadfast, and prayerful. The PDP will not die, but we must stay committed to its survival and growth.”
She further acknowledged Ajadi’s role in sustaining the party during challenging times.
“Ajadi is competent and has demonstrated uncommon loyalty. At a time when the party faced internal crises, he stood firm. This shows that he has been contributing, directly and indirectly, to strengthening and uniting the PDP in Oyo State,” she added.
Sunmonu also cautioned against any leadership that could undermine the achievements of Governor Seyi Makinde.
“We will not allow anyone who will destroy the legacy of Governor Makinde to succeed him. Whoever emerges must respect party leaders and sustain the progress already made,” she said.
Earlier, the facilitator of the meeting, Hon. Shakiru Ojo, commended Ajadi for identifying with party leaders, particularly his presence at Sunmonu’s recent birthday celebration, describing it as a mark of respect and political maturity.
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Also speaking, Chief Sunday Ogunlade praised Ajadi’s dedication to the PDP, describing him as a committed party member whose loyalty and generosity have distinguished him within the party.
“If the PDP has more individuals like Ajadi, it would remain highly competitive in Oyo State politics,” Ogunlade said. “He is not only loyal but also invests his time and resources in the growth of the party.”
Other stakeholders echoed similar sentiments, urging Ajadi to remain focused while also calling on whoever emerges as the party’s candidate to prioritise inclusiveness and grassroots engagement.
Alhaji Ajepe from Atiba noted that Ajadi’s approach to politics stands out.
“His ambition is not a do-or-die affair. That alone sets him apart. We pray that he secures the party’s ticket and continues on this path of humility and service,” he said.
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From Oyo East, Alhaji Yusuf Ismail emphasised the need for accessible leadership, drawing lessons from past administrations. He expressed confidence in Sunmonu’s leadership and affirmed his readiness to support any candidate endorsed by the party.
Similarly, Isiak Adebayo from Oyo West and former Afijio chairman, Sunday Akindele Ojo, stressed the importance of loyalty to party structures, urging aspirants to maintain strong ties with established leaders, including Sunmonu and Governor Makinde.
Voices from women and special interest groups were also prominent. Iya Ashado from Afijio and former Atiba women leader, Sikirat Olawuyi, called for greater inclusion of women in political structures, while Bro. Gbenga Emmanuel, speaking on behalf of persons with disabilities, urged Ajadi to carry them along in his political journey.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Alhaji Olatunji Qodri, who commended Sunmonu’s leadership and Ajadi’s growing influence within the party, followed by a closing prayer led by Hon. Adekunle Gbade.
The gathering is widely seen as part of ongoing grassroots consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race, as stakeholders continue to align interests and strengthen internal cohesion within the PDP in Oyo State.
