Oyo State gubernatorial aspirant, Colonel Gbenga Adegbola (Rtd), on Thursday, embarked on a political tour of the Ogbomoso zone, visiting the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, alongside other traditional rulers and party stakeholders in the area.
The recently retired Nigerian Army officer, who formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) at his ward in Saki, commenced the visit as part of ongoing grassroots engagements ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election.
Speaking to newsmen shortly after the visits, Adegbola emphasized the importance of connecting with the people across all zones in the state.
“We have visited all the zones in Oyo State since I joined the APC. Oyo is one indivisible state in Nigeria, and I’ve always advocated for unity. That is why I’ve been moving from zone to zone since joining the party — starting from the Oke-Ogun zone, then Oyo, Ibarapa, and now Ogbomoso. The reception from traditional rulers and party members has been so wonderful,” he said.
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| Dr. Gbenga Adegbola with the Alajaawa of Ajaawa, Oba Thompson Oyetunji (Olumole II) and party leaders in Ajaawa |
He stated that his ambition is driven by the desire to improve the welfare of the people.
“In the military, where I retired from, we live a communal life. I have deep respect for the people of Ogbomoso, especially because every son of this land I met in service was honest and trustworthy. This has made Ogbomoso zone a special priority for us.
“I hold a PhD in Security Management, and I strongly believe in the protection of lives. We’ll enhance security, particularly in rural areas, to ensure our farmers can go to their farms without fear or intimidation.”
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| Party leaders while receiving Dr. Gbenga Adegbola in Ogbomoso |
Col. Adegbola also criticized the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde over what he described as the neglect of traditional institutions. He advocated for more involvement of traditional rulers in policy formulation and security architecture, and reiterated his support for full local government autonomy to empower governance at the grassroots.
In his remarks, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, commended Adegbola for stepping forward to serve the people, describing Oyo as a complex state that requires strategic leadership.
“I am glad you made your intention known early. It shows you are prepared — not a last-minute aspirant. Like a soldier, you are planning ahead.
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| Dr. Gbenga Adegbola addressing loyalists at the Soun’s palace |
“Oyo is the premier Western state. It is very tough to govern. May God grant you the wisdom, knowledge and understanding to navigate its complexities. A soldier fears no battle — though this is not war, it won’t be easy.
“Oke-Ogun hasn’t produced a governor in a long time. May God help you. 2027 will be an interesting race; political activities have already begun since 2024. Be prepared. In our political structure, the main battle is winning the primary — once you secure that, you’re 80% there, especially in APC or PDP.”
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| Dr. Adegbola with the Onpetu of Ijeruland, Oba Sunday Oladapo Oyediran |
Adegbola’s tour included visits to the Alajaawa of Ajaawa, Oba Thompson Adeyeye Oyetunji (Olumole II); the Olopete of Opete, Oba Samuel Bamigboye; the Onpetu of Ijeru Land, Oba Sunday Oladapo Oyediran; the Olu of Obada, Oja-Oba, Oba Samuel Oyekunle; and prominent APC leader in the state, Senator Ayoade Adeseun.
He was accompanied by party loyalists from Oyo, Ogbomoso, Ajaawa, Opete, Saki (his hometown), and other parts of Oyo North Senatorial District.
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