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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Ogun State House of Assembly, Ifo Constituency I, Alhaji Adebari Semiu Adekunle, has cautioned Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, against actions that could heighten political tension in Ogun State, following the omission of the PDP governorship candidate, Chief Oladipupo Adebutu and his running mate Alhaja Lateefat Showunmi Kolapo from the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) final list of Governorship candidates.
Adebari’s warning comes amid a report in a national daily alleging that President Bola Tinubu has expressed displeasure over the desperation of some political associates, warning that their actions could damage his administration’s image and democratic legacy.
The PDP Assembly candidate urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Yayi and other political actors to exercise restraint, insisting that Ogun State must not become a battleground for desperate political interests ahead of the 2027 elections.
He cautioned INEC against any action that could undermine public confidence in the electoral process, stressing that the controversy surrounding Adebutu’s omission must be reversed by the electoral umpire.
Adebari maintained that political ambition should not take precedence over democratic principles, warning that attempts to manipulate the electoral process, if established, could threaten peace and stability in the state.
Citing the remark that “a situation where APC party members would be celebrating that they would remove names from the INEC list even before it actually happened was a reckless one,” he urged INEC to dispel public concerns and demonstrate that its decisions are guided by law, transparency and impartiality.
Adebari described the Presidency’s reported statement as a serious indictment that raises questions about INEC’s credibility and Senator Solomon Adeola’s role in the controversy.
He urged the Presidency to ensure that its commitment to credible elections is upheld, regardless of the political interests involved, adding that no individual should use the President’s name to advance personal ambitions and continue to stain the president’s efforts.
According to him, Ogun State deserves a peaceful political atmosphere where all qualified candidates can compete fairly and the electorate can freely determine their leaders.
He called on INEC to act responsibly in the interest of democracy and the people of Ogun State.
Adebari warned that the controversy surrounding the omission of Chief Oladipupo Adebutu and his running mate, Alhaja Lateefat Sowunmi-Kolapo, from INEC’s final list of candidates had gone beyond the two individuals, insisting that it had become a matter of concern for the people of Ogun State.
He said many residents, angered by what they perceive as an attempt to undermine their democratic choices, had threatened to rise in protest, while concerned elders and respected stakeholders had continued to appeal for calm and restraint to prevent a breakdown of peace.
The Assembly hopeful however, warned that the people were watching INEC closely and would not accept any attempt to shift the goalposts or undermine the electoral process.
According to him, the people of Ogun State, already burdened by economic hardship and suffering, are looking towards the 2027 elections for a change in their circumstances and would resist any action they believe could deny them a fair opportunity to choose their leaders.
He urged INEC to act transparently and address the controversy without delay, stressing that peace must not be mistaken for weakness and the people’s patience must not be taken for granted.
