In a significant and symbolic move that has redefined the political landscape of Ogun State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, led a high-powered delegation on a reconciliation visit to the residence of erstwhile Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola.
The visit brought together an array of notable stakeholders within the party, underscoring a collective commitment to unity, inclusion, and the greater good of Ogun State. Among those present were Chief Mrs. Iyabo Apampa, former deputy governor; Alhaja Salmot Makanjuola Badru; Senator Lekan Mustapha; members of the House of Representatives including Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade, Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka, and Tunji Akinosi; as well as former lawmaker Adekunle S. Adeyemi. The gathering also featured past Speakers of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Titi Oseni-Gomez and Tunji Egbetokun, while the Ogun State House of Assembly Deputy Chief Whip, Babatunde Opeolu Tella, was also in attendance. The delegation further included notable party leaders such as former APC state chairman, Chief Aderinsola Adebiyi; APC Organising Secretary, Yemi Adelani; and Abeokuta North APC Chairman, Alhaja Faidat Sarumi Akintunde, alongside respected stakeholders including Baba Musibau Ajibola, Chief Bakai Ajao Okedara, Babatunde Olaotan, and Hassan Taiwo Oludotun (Twinny), among others.
In an atmosphere charged with respect and admiration, members of the delegation took turns to extol the virtues, political pedigree, and towering influence of Ambassador Isola, describing him as a stabilising force whose contributions to governance and party development remain indelible. Speaking during the visit, Adeola emphasised that the essence of the gathering was rooted in reconciliation, genuine partnership, and the need to consolidate the party’s strength ahead of future political engagements. He noted that Isola was deliberately chosen as the first priority in his reconciliation efforts, highlighting the sincerity of his intention to unify all stakeholders. He also emphasised that the composition of his delegation was personally put together within hours.
Adeola also sought clarity regarding Isola’s absence at the recent State Caucus meeting that produced him as the consensus candidate, while extending an olive branch by requesting for Isola’s proposed plans for Ogun State, with a view to integrating his ideas into a broader developmental agenda for the state.
In his response, Isola warmly received the delegation, describing the visit as both thoughtful and historic. He reflected on his longstanding personal and political relationships with members of the delegation, stressing that while politics is inherently driven by interests, it must never erode human relationships or breed bitterness. Reaffirming his unwavering commitment to the Yewa Agenda, Isola recounted his strategic roles in achieving “Yewa for Governor.” He recalled that in 2011, he was the Director-General for the General Olutunji Olurin Governorship Campaign. In 2015, he was a supporter of Gboyega Nasiru Isiaka governorship bid; in 2019, he was the Director-General for the Abdulkabir Abiodun Akinlade Governorship Campaign. And in 2023, he was a supporter of Biyi Otegbeye governorship bid. Isola reiterated that this will be the third time of sacrificing his governorship ambition for the Yewa governorship agenda.
Drawing from his wealth of experience, the esteemed diplomat highlighted his consistent advocacy for stable political transitions. He briefed the delegation on his visits to elder statesmen such as Governor Dapo Abiodun and former governors Olusegun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel, and Ibikunle Amosun on the need to end hostile successions in Ogun State. He said he also took the advocacy to paramount rulers in Ogun State namely Alake, Awujale, Akarigbo, and Olu Ilaro. Isola expressed happiness that the seed of the advocacy is bearing fruits.
Addressing concerns about inclusiveness, Isola explained that discussions regarding the integration of his supporters into a future administration would be addressed at a later stage, noting that the immediate priority was fostering direct engagement between the consensus candidate and his political base to build trust and alignment. On his absence at the APC State Caucus meeting, Isola clarified that he was not invited and would not want to breach the protocol. His explanation was acknowledged with understanding by the entire members of the delegation.
In a decisive show of party loyalty, Isola reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and his readiness to work for the party in the forthcoming national and state elections. He formally presented his 64-page proposed plans for Ogun State to Adeola. Also presented to Adeola for the purpose of collaborative and inclusive governance were his lecture on local government administration at Fountain University, Osogbo; his lecture on constitutional roles for traditional rulers at Remo Traditional Council Retreat; a book, A Man on the Mission, a catalog of his achievements as the Nigeria High Commissioner in the United Kingdom; and another book, The Number One Mission, and other valuable documents.
The visit, beyond its ceremonial significance, stands as a testament to the enduring value of dialogue, humility, and strategic unity in politics. It signals a shift from rivalry to partnership, offering a compelling narrative of reconciliation that would redefine the trajectory of Ogun State in the forthcoming general election. The reconciliation visit signals not just the mending of fences, but the building of bridges capable of carrying the aspirations of a people towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.
