A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Commissioner representing Ogun State at the Federal Character Commission, Kayode Oladele, has called on political actors across party lines to embrace issue-based campaigning ahead of the 2027 general elections. Oladele made the appeal while also criticizing the governorship ambition of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in Ogun State, Hon. Ladi Adebutu, whom he described as lacking the competence and leadership capacity to govern the state.
Oladele Criticizes Adebutu's Credentials
Oladele stated that Adebutu does not possess the credibility, consistency, managerial competence, and leadership qualities required for effective governance. The former federal character commissioner made these remarks while reacting to recent comments attributed to an aide of Adebutu, who allegedly described Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi as a “stranger” in Ogun State. He said such comments reflect an attempt to distract the public with personal attacks rather than present meaningful policy alternatives.
Call for Focus on Governance
Oladele urged political actors to focus on governance, economic growth, infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, security, and sustainable development instead of identity-based politics. He added that Senator Adeola Yayi has demonstrated effective representation through constituency projects, scholarships, empowerment initiatives, and interventions that have positively impacted lives across Ogun State. According to him, leadership should be judged by competence, integrity, performance, and commitment to public service rather than propaganda.
“It is regrettable that individuals who ought to be presenting clear policy alternatives have instead chosen bitterness and personal attacks. The people of Ogun State are politically enlightened,” Oladele said.
Adebutu's Political Record Questioned
Oladele further argued that Adebutu’s political record does not demonstrate the administrative discipline and strategic leadership required to manage Ogun State’s affairs. He said governance demands experience in managing public institutions and resources, as well as the ability to build consensus—qualities he claimed the PDP candidate lacks. The APC chieftain also faulted the PDP’s internal crises, defections, and declining influence, saying they reflect deeper structural weaknesses within the opposition party.
Past PDP Administrations Criticized
He recalled alleged shortcomings of past PDP administrations at the national level, accusing the party of poor economic management, corruption, infrastructural decline, insecurity, and weak governance. Oladele maintained that Ogun State cannot afford leadership rooted in division, propaganda, or hostility. “Ogun State deserves a leader with proven experience, capacity, maturity, and a genuine commitment to development,” he added.
Call for Decorum and Issue-Based Campaigns
He urged all political actors to maintain decorum and embrace issue-based campaigns to preserve peace, unity, and democratic values in the state, expressing confidence that voters would ultimately support credible and development-driven leadership.
