By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.

Women in Ogun State, under the aegis of LADO Special Programme, have declared their support for the governorship ambition of Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu ahead of the 2027 election, backing their endorsement with a cash donation to assist in the purchase of his nomination form under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The group, made up of civil servants, teachers, nurses and other professionals, announced their decision during a meeting held in Abeokuta with the PDP’s 2023 governorship candidate. They said their endorsement followed extensive consultations and a careful assessment of the state’s political landscape.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting in Kuto, Abeokuta, the group’s chairperson, Mrs Abimbola Adeleye, said the gathering was aimed at strengthening mobilisation efforts across Ogun State. She described Adebutu as a visionary leader with a strong commitment to the progress and development of the state.

According to her, Adebutu’s understanding of grassroots challenges and his longstanding dedication to the welfare of the people distinguish him from other contenders. She stressed that the group’s support was based on competence and credibility rather than party affiliation, noting that leadership should be driven by service and impact.

Adeleye further explained that the endorsement reflected a consensus among women from diverse professional backgrounds who are passionate about development. She commended Adebutu’s track record in promoting women’s welfare and supporting initiatives that uplift families, adding that this has earned him widespread trust among women.
She also cited his advocacy for the girl-child as a key factor, emphasising that empowering young girls is essential for societal progress. The group expressed confidence that Adebutu, if elected, would run an inclusive administration that gives women meaningful roles in governance.

The women pledged to mobilise support for his candidacy across the 20 local government areas of the state and committed to engaging communities to raise awareness about his leadership qualities. They also projected delivering at least 30,000 votes in support of his ambition.

Director of LADO Special Programme, Mr Oluseye Afolabi, appreciated the women for their support and urged them to go beyond verbal endorsement by participating actively in the electoral process. He encouraged them to vote courageously for credible leadership.

In his response, Adebutu expressed gratitude for the support and confidence reposed in him. He assured the group that women would not be sidelined in his administration if elected governor in 2027.

He further disclosed plans to select a woman as his running mate, noting that efforts were already underway to identify a qualified candidate. Adebutu also urged the women to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and mobilise others to do the same, stressing the importance of active participation in the electoral process.

Also speaking, Ambassador Folake Marcus Bello commended the women for their bold stance, noting that their action reflects a growing desire among Nigerians for credible leadership rather than inducement-driven politics.

She lamented the culture of vote-buying, where voters are swayed by material incentives, and praised the group for making a principled choice based on conviction.

The women concluded by calling on stakeholders across the state to support credible candidates, stressing that Ogun State deserves purposeful, inclusive and people-oriented leadership.