Dr. Gbenga Adegbola, a distinguished philanthropist and leading gubernatorial aspirant under the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC), has called for a unified front in championing the political ascension of the Oke-Ogun region.
During a recent series of courtesy visits to traditional rulers across Atisbo Local Government and beyond, Dr. Adegbola emphasized that the quest for an Oke-Ogun indigene to lead the state transcends partisan politics.
“This is not a battle for the APC, PDP, or any political platform. It is a collective pursuit of identity, equity, and survival, it is time for all stakeholders, traditional rulers, political actors, community leaders, and the youth, to come together in solidarity for a future where Oke-Ogun is no longer marginalized.” Adegbola declared.
Dr. Adegbola’s statewide engagement included visits to several royal fathers, all of whom expressed both their admiration for his longstanding contributions to development and their prayers for his political success. His tour formed part of a strategic move to consolidate regional unity and bolster traditional support.
One of the prominent stops on the tour was at the palace of HRM Oba Dr. Sunday Azeez Babatunde, the Onibasi of Basiland, who warmly received the gubernatorial hopeful. Dr. Adegbola expressed gratitude for the hospitality and acknowledged the critical role traditional rulers play in fostering community development and political stability.
Oba Dr. Azeez, in his response, lauded Adegbola’s philanthropic initiatives that predate his political ambitions. He offered prayers for his success and described his candidacy as a hopeful turning point for the region.
At Irawo Land, HRM Oba Dr. Muslili Ademola Olalere, Ajoriwin of Irawo and Chairman of the Atisbo Council of Obas, questioned why Oke-Ogun, despite its size and contributions to the state, had never produced a governor.
He commended Dr. Adegbola’s humility and respect for the traditional institution, expressing hope that under his leadership, the region would finally attain its rightful place in Oyo State’s governance.
HRM Oba Ige Ahmed Adegoke Onigbadi of Agunrege, praised Adegbola’s courage and noted that the traditional council of Oke-Ogun was united in supporting his aspiration. “We, the royal fathers of this land, are working assiduously to ensure that this vision becomes a reality,” the monarch affirmed.
The tour also brought Dr. Adegbola to Ago-Aare, where HRM Oba Dr. Michael Abodunrin Kofoworola Olakanla II, Aare of Ago-Aare, offered spiritual and moral support, describing Adegbola as a consistent visionary. “This is more than politics; it is a liberation movement. Stay steadfast,” he urged.
The traditional rulers emphasized that Adegbola’s efforts represent not just a personal ambition but a generational opportunity for the Oke-Ogun region.
In Ofiki Land, HRM Oba Adeoye Gbenga Adigun Oyinlola II, the Aare of Ofiki, hosted Adegbola with grandeur, organizing a cultural welcome party in his honor. The visit further demonstrated the depth of grassroots and royal support his candidacy continues to receive.
Other royal dignitaries visited included HRM Oba Jimoh Aderemi Gbadegesin, Onisabe of Sábẹ́ Kingdom, Oba Alhaji AbdAzeez Oyedele Omofoyewa, Oloto of Oto, HRM Oba Uthman Azeez Oyetunde, Alagere of Agere, HRM Oba Amos Olayemi, Olowo of Owotoro, HRM Oba Adetunji Jubril Adeleke, Olowode of Irawo Owode.
Dr. Adegbola also paid his final respects at the funeral of the late HRM Oba Sunday Oyedokun (JP), the Olooto of Ofiki, a revered traditional ruler and ex-military officer. He described the late monarch as a figure of discipline and integrity whose legacy would continue to inspire the people of Oke-Ogun.
Concluding his visits, Dr. Adegbola called on his supporters to remain steadfast and loyal. “This is our time. Let us walk together in faith and unity. The struggle shall end in praise,” he stated.
