Ogun APC Consensus: Ishola Urges Calm, Lemo Withdraws for Yayi
In a significant political development in Ogun State, governorship aspirant Sarafa Tunji Ishola has called for calm among his supporters following the announcement of Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as the consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the upcoming gubernatorial election. Ishola, a former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, issued a statement urging his followers to remain steadfast and confident as he embarks on wide consultations.
Ishola's Call for Consultation and Democratic Values
Sarafa Tunji Ishola emphasized that he is actively engaging in broad and meaningful consultations with critical stakeholders and respected voices across the political and social landscape of Ogun State. As a democrat deeply committed to the values of inclusiveness, consultation, and responsible leadership, Ishola stated that these discussions are essential to ensure that any decision taken is not only strategic but also reflective of the collective interest, aspirations, and stability of the people.
He noted: "Consultations are vital to our democratic process, and I am dedicated to ensuring that every step we take aligns with the broader goals of our party and the welfare of Ogun State." This move highlights his commitment to party unity and the democratic principles that underpin the APC's internal processes.
Tunde Lemo's Strategic Withdrawal and Endorsement
In a related development, former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Tunde Lemo, has stepped back from his governorship ambition in Ogun State, throwing his full support behind Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi). Lemo announced his decision in a statement issued in Abeokuta, explaining that it came after deep reflection and wide consultations with party leaders and stakeholders across the state.
Lemo described his withdrawal as a calculated realignment in the broader interest of the APC and Ogun State, stating: "This is not a retreat from service. It is a deliberate, strategic alignment for the greater good." He expressed confidence in the APC leadership's judgment, noting that party elders believe Adeola has the capacity to consolidate the gains of the current administration under Governor Dapo Abiodun and position Ogun State as Nigeria's industrial and innovation hub.
Unity and Electoral Prospects in Ogun State
The consensus arrangement, according to Lemo, is designed to foster unity across Ogun State's three senatorial zones, thereby strengthening the party's overall electoral prospects. He called on his supporters and political structures spread across the state's 20 local councils to mobilize fully behind Adeola's campaign.
Lemo pledged: "I will deploy my background in finance, enterprise, and public policy to support the party's victory and ensure effective governance for Ogun State." He thanked the APC national and state leadership, traditional rulers, and the people of Ogun State for their continued confidence in him, while urging all stakeholders to keep their eyes on the bigger prize.
In his concluding remarks, Lemo emphasized: "The contest ahead is not about individuals. It is about Ogun's future. Let us be on the right side of history, united, focused, and victorious." This statement underscores the collective effort within the APC to present a united front and secure electoral success in the state.
