In a determined move to consolidate grassroots support and forge critical alliances ahead of the 2027 Oyo State gubernatorial election, Dr. Gbenga Adegbola, a leading aspirant under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), embarked on a comprehensive familiarization and consultation tour across the Ibarapa zone of the state.
The tour, characterized by a blend of royal receptions, strategic stakeholder engagements, and deep cultural reverence, saw Dr. Adegbola visiting key monarchs and APC chieftains in a bid to foster unity and galvanize momentum for what he described as the long-overdue political liberation of Oke-Ogun and Ibarapa zones.
At the palace of the Asigangan of Igangan Land, His Royal Majesty Oba AbdRafiu Olaniyi Adeniyi Ariwoola Aako II, Dr. Adegbola was received with a resounding welcome.
The monarch commended Dr. Adegbola’s courage and vision, particularly applauding his resolve to end what he termed the historical marginalization of Oke-Ogun and Ibarapa within the political architecture of Oyo State.
Oba Ariwoola emphasized the urgent need for regional unity, noting that true change could only be achieved through collective action and statewide collaboration.
Similarly, at the palace of HRM Oba Jimoh Olajide Titiloye, the Olu of Igboora and paramount ruler of Ibarapa Central, Dr. Adegbola was greeted by a full assembly of high chiefs and community leaders. In his remarks, Oba Jimoh extolled Dr. Adegbola’s boldness and sincere intentions, describing him as a “potential instrument of liberation” for the long-neglected zones.
However, the monarch, in a show of due diligence, pledged to conduct a thorough background check on the aspirant to ensure his credibility, asserting that his love for Dr. Adegbola’s courage would not overshadow the imperative of safeguarding the community’s interest.
Continuing his royal engagements, Dr. Adegbola visited HRM Oba Sunday Oyekanmi Owolabi Titilope Abioje I, the Elempe of Tapaland, where he reiterated the inseparable historical and cultural bonds between Oke-Ogun and Ibarapa.
Addressing the gathering, he lamented the diminished influence of traditional rulers in governance, blaming systemic hijack by political actors, and vowed to restore the dignity and authority of royal institutions if elected.
Oba Sunday, recognizing Dr. Adegbola’s contributions, particularly his solidarity with prominent activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, blessed the aspirant and prayed fervently for his success in the upcoming elections.
At Tapaland, High Chief Makinde Yekeen, the Seriki of Tapa, advised Dr. Adegbola to maintain constant engagement with royal fathers and traditional chiefs, emphasizing that they remain critical to the peace and stability of the state despite facing numerous silent struggles. Chief Makinde also invoked the legacy of the late Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleosho, praising his pivotal role in local governance and urging Dr. Adegbola to emulate his leadership style. In a moment of emotional reflection, Dr. Adegbola requested a minute of silence in honor of Chief Koleosho, whom he described as both a mentor and a father figure who encouraged his foray into politics.
The familiarization tour also took Dr. Adegbola to the palaces of HRM Oba Okeniyi Emmanuel Ewuola Aremu Atidade Adetunji I, the Asawo of Ayete Land; the Onilala of Lalate Land; and HRM Oba Rev. Aderoju Kingsley Onikola, the Onidere of Idereland. In a gesture of commitment to the traditional institution, Dr. Adegbola donated ₦1 million towards the completion of the Onidere palace.
Beyond the royal circuit, Dr. Adegbola engaged with political heavyweights in the Ibarapa zone, meeting with members of the influential G-9 and G-64 groups led by Chief Timothy Alarape Jolaoso. In a closed-door session, the aspirant presented his vision for a more inclusive and equitable Oyo State. The leaders welcomed his ambition, acknowledging his position as the first gubernatorial hopeful to formally declare interest ahead of the 2027 race. They emphasized the necessity of building bridges across all regions of the state and advised him to intensify his familiarization efforts amidst a field of strong contenders.
Among the notable personalities present at the G-9 and G-64 meeting were Chief K. O. Jinadu, Elder Dayo Adeola, Primate S. A. Aderonmu, Alhaji O. M. Abass, Chief F. N. Babalola, Chief T. A. Aderenle Wise Gbogbogboo, Hon. R. O. Ojegoke, and posthumously honored Chief S. O. Lasunsi.
