Ogun 2027 guber: PDP dismisses claims challenging Adebutu’s eligibility
By James Ogunnaike
The Ogun State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has refuted claims regarding the eligibility of its candidate for the 2027 governorship election, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu. The party characterized allegations of his name being omitted from its official membership register as unfounded and politically motivated.
This statement comes in response to concerns raised by the Ogun Democratic Accountability Forum (ODAF), which questioned Adebutu’s qualifications to run in the upcoming election.
In a statement released in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, Arc. Kayode Adebayo, the PDP’s State Publicity Secretary, affirmed that Adebutu is a registered and financially active member of the party and a recognized leader within the state.
Adebayo emphasized that the PDP had adhered to all relevant legal and statutory requirements concerning membership registration and the submission of its membership register to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He noted that these processes were carried out within the specified deadlines, rendering the allegations against Adebutu baseless.
“Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu remains a fully registered, financially active, and undisputed leader of the PDP in Ogun State. All legal and statutory requirements regarding party registration and the submission of the membership register to INEC were duly complied with within the prescribed timelines,” Adebayo stated.
The PDP further alleged that the accusations against Adebutu are part of a politically orchestrated campaign intended to undermine his position ahead of the 2027 election. The party accused members sympathetic to the All Progressives Congress (APC) of promoting this campaign, asserting it aims to create confusion among voters and distract from pressing issues.
Additionally, the PDP questioned the political background and residency of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, known as Yayi, who represents Ogun West Senatorial District. The party expressed concerns over Adeola’s previous representation of Lagos State and his current political activities in Ogun State, indicating a need for clarification on these matters.
The PDP also raised issues related to the implementation and location of federal constituency projects, alleging that projects designated for other states had been redirected to Ogun State. The party argued that these allegations warrant public examination but accused its rivals of attempting to deflect attention by challenging Adebutu’s eligibility.
Regarding legal arguments presented by ODAF related to Supreme Court decisions and nomination fee payments, the PDP reiterated that eligibility to contest elections is governed by the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and relevant judicial rulings, not by statements from political advocacy groups.
“Political eligibility is determined by the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and applicable judicial authorities. It cannot be established or extinguished by press statements issued by politically aligned groups,” the party remarked.
In conclusion, the PDP urged INEC to ignore what it described as efforts by political proxies to create uncertainty regarding Adebutu’s candidacy. The party reassured its members and supporters across Ogun State that, based on its assessment, Adebutu’s nomination process remains valid, and he is eligible to seek the party’s mandate in the upcoming 2027 governorship election.
