In what is regarded as a moment of unity and renewed political energy in Ogo-Oluwa/Surulere as Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye formally declared his intention to contest for the Oyo Central Senatorial seat, drawing together party stakeholders and leaders across both local government areas.
The stakeholders’ meeting was marked by a warm reception and a shared sense of purpose, as Olaleye took his senatorial bid to his home base, which had in attendance several party faithful, leaders and stakeholders, outlining his vision and readiness to serve.
In his address, he highlighted his wealth of experience and contributions across various offices held within the current administration, and the previous offices he had held, noting that these roles have allowed him to positively impact all local government areas within the Oyo Central Senatorial District.
He called for support from the stakeholders towards his bid, assuring them of quality representation that would exceed expectations and deliver meaningful development to the people.
In his welcome remarks, the Executive Chairman of Ogo-Oluwa Local Government, Hon. Seun Ojo, commended Barr. Olaleye for his courage and boldness in stepping forward to serve. He urged stakeholders to rally behind him, provide the necessary support for his ambition and then call for his recommendation to the Senatorial leaders for endorsement. Hon. Ojo also used the occasion to call for the endorsement of Hon. Makanjuola Ojo “Smato” for a second term. The two motions were unanimously supported by stakeholders and subsequently forwarded to the party secretariat in Ibadan.
Speaking further, Hon. Seun Ojo described the Commissioner for Agricultural and Rural Development as a credible and capable leader whose aspiration is both commendable and worthy of support. He reaffirmed the collective backing of stakeholders for both Olaleye and the incumbent representative, Hon. Ojo Makanjuola SMATO, expressing confidence in their ability to deliver effective representation.
The Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Hon. Adegbite Isaiah Alaba described Olaleye as a good man who has continued to use his good office to better the lives of the people.
He urged the party stakeholders and leaders to rally around their son as this is their best shot at the Senate and it is necessary that the best shot is given.
Speaking at the event, the Federal House of Representatives member representing Ogooluwa/Surulere Federal Constituency called for more synergy amongst the leaders and stakeholders of the Party to achieve victory at the polls. He said this is necessary and important because of the peculiarity of Oyo State as one of the States the APC-led federal government is targeting for forceful takeover.
In his remarks, Hon. Folaranmi Oyebamiji described the gathering as a true reflection of solidarity and synergy between Ogo-Oluwa and Surulere. He charged Olaleye to remain committed to delivering tangible achievements that would speak for his leadership, while also advising Hon. Smato to sustain his good work and maintain active engagement with critical stakeholders. He emphasised the need for a coordinated and harmonious political approach among all aspirants and leaders to secure a resounding electoral victory.
Hon. Isreal Ogundiran (Master) from Surulere also commended both Barrister Olaleye and Hon. Smato for their contributions to the development of the area. He encouraged them to continue delivering the dividends of democracy and appealed for a strong partnership between them to ensure victory in the forthcoming elections.
Hon. Maruf Obalagbe lauded Barr. Olaleye’s outstanding record of service as a former commissioner across different portfolios, describes him as a seasoned statesman. He also commended Hon. Makanjuola Ojo for his impactful performance, urging both leaders to strengthen collaboration and run a united, strategic campaign.
Pastor Taiwo from Surulere echoed similar sentiments, pledging unwavering support for the decisions of the leadership while encouraging all parties involved to exceed public expectations and foster unity among themselves.
Elder statesman, Baba Adekunle Oni’lè from Ogo-Oluwa, welcomed all stakeholders and described the meeting as a significant step towards strengthening peace and unity between the two local government areas. He assured that Ogo-Oluwa remains committed to making necessary sacrifices for the collective success of the party and urged both LGAs to continue to work as one.
The meeting was graced by prominent party leaders and stakeholders, including: Hon. Seun Ojo (Executive Chairman, Ogo-Oluwa); Hon. Isaiah Adegbite (Executive Chairman, Surulere); Olugbade Adediran (Ogo-Oluwa Party Chairman); Hon. Ojo Makanjuola SMATO, member of the Federal House of Representatives – Ògo-Olúwa/Surulere Federal Constituency; Hon. Adeeyo Okesanjo (Surulere Party Chairman); Hon. Folaranmi Oyebamiji, Hon. Akinsola Akinboro, Hon. Sola Peter Agbebi, Prince Adegbite Adeyemo, Hon. Sanjo Akintola, Hon. Rasaq Mustapha, Hon. Sayo Alagbe, Prince Adeyemo Jacob, Prince Sola Oyelade and others.
The gathering ultimately reinforced a strong message of unity, cooperation, and collective determination among party stakeholders in Ogo-Oluwa and Surulere, setting a solid foundation for the political journey ahead.
