The race for the Agodi Government House in 2027 gained significant momentum on Wednesday as the Interim National Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, formally met with the state working committee and local government chairmen of the party in the 33 local government areas to notify them of his intention to contest the Oyo State gubernatorial election and solicit their support.
The former Deputy Governor arrived at a rousing reception from party faithful, led by the Chairman Hon Dayo Ogungbenro, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, and other high-ranking leaders at the party’s office located at Oke Ado. Ibadan.
He was accompanied by a massive entourage of political allies, family members, and supporters who turned the secretariat into a carnival of sorts.
Addressing the party leadership, Arapaja described his ambition as a “lifelong odyssey” rooted in over 30 years of political service.
A mentee of the late political titan, High Chief Lamidi Adedibu, the Ambassador emphasized that his candidacy is built on loyalty and a deep connection to the grassroots.
According to him, “Oyo State does not need a newcomer or a political experiment,”
“We need a steady, experienced hand to ensure that the progress started by Governor Seyi Makinde is not only sustained but accelerated. I represent that bridge between current successes and a future of even greater prosperity.” He said.
Highlighting his extensive resume which spans roles as a two-term Local Government Chairman, Member of the House of Representatives, Deputy Governor, and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Iran and Jordan—Arapaja noted that his unique blend of executive and diplomatic experience prepares him to “hit the ground running.”
While praising the “Omituntun” agenda of the incumbent governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, Arapaja noted that his primary goal is to provide a “calmness of experience” to protect the party’s gains in infrastructure, education, agriculture, healthcare and most importantly, the sustainability of the workers and pensioners well being packaged.
the leaders of the party who took turns to respond to his speech acknowledged Arapaja’s contributions to the PDP’s stability, particularly his role as former Deputy National Chairman (South) and National Secretary.
They hinted that Arapaja parades a very deep political experience that is difficult to beat by any of his co aspirants for the gubernatorial position, which gives him an edge over others.
They assured him of their support to ensure victory for him.
As the date scheduled for the conduct of the primary elections fast approaching, Arapaja becomes one of the most prominent figures to formally enter the race to succeed Governor Makinde, signaling a strategic move to consolidate the PDP’s hold on the Pacesetter State ahead of the 2027 polls.
Party stalwarts that accompanied Arapaja included Hon Abass ADIGUN Agboworin Hon Adewusi Ayinde (Arole),
Hon Alawode Emmanuel Oluwole,
Hon Tope Yusuf Supreme, Hon Teslim Ogundeji,
Hon Yinka Omikunle Hon Modiu Akande,, Hon Sunday Babatunde,
Hon Taofeek Oladejo,
Hon Kunmi Adesina
Hon Kamorudeen Fabumi,
Hon Okiki Adebolu, Hon. Engr. Sulaiman Adesina
Hon. Kamorudeen Surveyor-General
Hon. Dauda Yusuf and
Hon. Remi Popoola.
