Obasanjo backs Awori governorship as the former president signals Ogun West and Ota’s growing momentum ahead of the 2027 Ogun election

GCFR, in Ota Ogun State, publicly endorsed the agitation for an Awori indigene to emerge as the next Governor of Ogun State, declaring that the 2027 governorship race represents the collective turn of Ogun West.

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Speaking at the Odun Omo Iganmode cultural celebration, held in the historic Awori town of Ota, the former Nigerian leader delivered remarks widely interpreted as a decisive political signal in favour of Ogun West Senatorial District producing the state’s next governor.

The gathering was attended by Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engineer Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who also holds the traditional title of Beere of Aworiland and is considered a leading figure in emerging succession conversations ahead of the end of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s second term in 2027.

At a pivotal moment during the event, Obasanjo rose from his seat and directed his remarks toward the Awori delegation, drawing sustained attention from political stakeholders and traditional leaders in attendance.

Addressing growing debates over power rotation, Obasanjo said the issue extended beyond personal ambition and required collective resolve.

“As we move closer to the forthcoming election, there has been widespread discussion about the issue of turn. When we say it is our turn, it is not about one individual. It is the collective turn of our people, and it will only be achieved through unity, cooperation and shared responsibility,” Obasanjo said.

The former president stressed that opportunity must be matched with discipline, adding that unity would be decisive in translating aspiration into reality.

“If it is truly our turn, then we must work together with purpose and discipline to make it happen. By the grace of God, it shall come to pass,” he said.

Beyond electoral politics, Obasanjo urged Awori leaders and residents to prioritise development and cohesion over personal interests, describing progress as a shared obligation.

“Our foremost priority must be the sustainable development of Aworiland. Progress can only be achieved when everyone is united by a common vision,” he said.

Reflecting on Ota’s economic and social growth over several decades, Obasanjo argued that the town’s transformation strengthened its claim to political leadership within the state.

“When I first came to Ota, there was only one bank. Today, the town has grown remarkably. Having come this far, it is timely and justified for Ota to produce a governor. This is not a personal project but a collective mandate,” he said.

Political observers across Ogun State have described the intervention as a powerful moment, interpreting Obasanjo’s words, timing and setting as an unmistakable endorsement that could recalibrate the 2027 race in favour of Ogun West.

The event drew senior political figures, including Senator Solomon Adeola, representing Ogun West; House of Representatives member Tunji Akinosi; former lawmakers Jimoh Ojugbele and Akin Odunsi; former commissioner Waliu Taiwo; and Segun Gbeleyi, among others.

Traditional rulers and cultural leaders were also prominent, led by the Osolo of Isolo, Oba Abiodun Shekoni Faronbi, the Olofin Adimula Oodua of Ado-Odo, Oba Olusola Idris Osolo Otenibotemole II, and the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams.

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With the 2027 governorship contest beginning to take shape, Obasanjo’s declaration is increasingly viewed as a game-changing moment that places Ota and Aworiland firmly at the centre of Ogun State’s political future.