2027: Don’t Set Ogun On Fire, PDP Candidate Warns INEC Over Adebutu’s Exclusion

A Peoples Democratic Party candidate for the Ogun State House of Assembly, Adebari Semiu Adekunle, has warned the Independent National Electoral Commission against actions capable of heightening political tension in the state following the exclusion of the party’s governorship candidate, Oladipupo Adebutu, from the commission’s final list for the 2027 election.

Adebari, who is contesting for Ifo Constituency I, also cautioned Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, and other political stakeholders against conduct that could threaten peace and stability in the state.

The PDP candidate’s warning followed INEC’s omission of Adebutu and his running mate, Lateefat Showunmi-Kolapo, from the published list of candidates for the February 2027 governorship election.

According to a report by Platform Times, Adebari expressed concern that the development could undermine public confidence in the electoral process if the issues surrounding the omission were not addressed transparently.

He urged INEC to clarify the circumstances surrounding the decision and ensure that all actions concerning candidates complied with the law.

Adebari also referred to reports that President Bola Tinubu had expressed displeasure with the conduct of some political associates, warning against actions that could damage the administration’s image and democratic legacy.

He questioned the reported celebration by some political actors over the anticipated exclusion of candidates, describing such conduct as a source of concern.

The PDP candidate maintained that political ambition should not take precedence over democratic principles, urging political leaders to avoid inflammatory statements and actions ahead of the polls.

He further called on the Presidency to ensure that its commitment to credible elections was upheld, regardless of partisan interests.

“Ogun State must not be turned into a battleground for desperate political interests ahead of the 2027 elections,” he warned.

Adebari said the controversy had implications beyond the affected PDP candidates, arguing that residents deserved an electoral process that was transparent, fair and consistent with the law.

He urged political parties, electoral officials and other stakeholders to prioritise peace while addressing disputes through established legal channels.

INEC’s explanation for the omission was not included in the report. Separately, the APC campaign council has denied that the ruling party or Adeola was responsible for Adebutu’s exclusion, according to Punch Newspapers.