The political landscape in Ogun State is beginning to take shape ahead of the 2027 general elections, as the Action Democratic Party (ADP) has formally wooed prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Otunba Segun Showunmi, to fly its flag in the governorship race.
Leaders of the ADP from across the 20 local government areas of Ogun State converged on Showunmi’s country home in Abeokuta, the state capital, where they unanimously urged him to accept the party’s governorship ticket for the 2027 election.
The move comes barely weeks after the Labour Party was reported to have also endorsed Showunmi and offered him its governorship ticket, underscoring his growing appeal across party lines as preparations for the next election cycle intensify.
Speaking at the meeting, the Ogun State Chairman of the Action Democratic Party, Ambassador Erelu Funke Olanrewaju, said she led the delegation to formally solicit Showunmi’s acceptance of the party’s ticket. She disclosed that although the ADP currently has two governorship aspirants, the party leadership strongly prefers Showunmi, whom they believe has the capacity and popularity to secure victory in 2027.
Describing him as “the voice of the people and the best man for the job,” Olanrewaju expressed confidence that Showunmi possesses the leadership qualities and vision needed to positively transform Ogun State if elected governor.
According to her, “We believe Otunba Segun Showunmi has everything required to occupy the seat of governor come 2027. With him as our candidate, Ogun State will be on the path to greatness.”
Other ADP leaders present echoed similar sentiments, unanimously agreeing that Showunmi’s emergence as the party’s governorship candidate would significantly strengthen the party’s chances and reposition the state for sustainable development.
In his response, Showunmi expressed gratitude to the ADP leadership for their confidence in him and commended the party’s ideological consistency. He also praised High Chief Alani Bankole for his role in galvanising the party’s growing popularity within Ogun State and across the country.
Showunmi acknowledged the offer to contest under the ADP platform, stating that he would give it serious consideration. He reaffirmed his commitment to the progress of Ogun State, noting that the state has vast growth potential that can be harnessed with purposeful leadership.
“No nation can truly thrive in a democracy without a strong opposition,” Showunmi said. “I have been extremely stable, completely committed and unapologetic as a PDP member since 1998. I have supported both past and present leaders in Ogun State, and I believe this is my own time to serve and lead the Gateway State.”
On speculation that he may be considering leaving the PDP ahead of the 2027 governorship election, Showunmi confirmed that he has received overtures from leaders of other political parties. However, he stopped short of declaring his next move.
“I have heard your request to contest the governorship under your platform. All I can say is thank you, and by the grace of Almighty God, I will consider it seriously,” he said.
With political activities gradually gaining momentum ahead of 2027, Showunmi’s next decision is expected to have significant implications for Ogun State’s political dynamics and the race to succeed incumbent Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON.
