Chief Ayo Opadokun, a pro-democracy crusader and former Secretary-General of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), has expressed support for Seun Ogunniyi Adato as the Kwara State's All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governor in 2027. This endorsement follows a private consultative visit by Hon. Ogunniyi to Opadokun's residence in Lagos. As a revered legal mind and author, Opadokun played a significant role in resisting the military junta and the struggle for democracy after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
During the consultative session, Opadokun commended Ogunniyi for his grassroots commitment, legislative maturity, and devotion to progressive governance in Kwara State. He emphasized that the sustained progress of Offa, Kwara South, and the entire state relies on entrusting leadership to capable, principled, and tested young leaders who embody integrity and selfless public service. Opadokun offered his patriarchal blessing to the joint SYD-ADATO ticket under the APC.
Opadokun urged Ogunniyi to remain an uncompromising champion of equity, rule of law, and people-first democratic values when elected into executive office. This endorsement is seen as a significant milestone in Ogunniyi's political journey. He described the endorsement as a deeply humbling and historic moment, adding that sitting at the feet of a living legend of Nigeria's democratic struggle, Pa Ayo Opadokun, is an invaluable masterclass in sacrifice and principle.
Ogunniyi highlighted that for decades, Opadokun stood on the frontline, defending Nigeria's democracy and elevating the name of Offa on the national stage. Receiving Opadokun's blessings, counsel, and unconditional backing for the deputy governorship bid is both a profound honour and a sacred trust. This reinforces Ogunniyi's resolve to uphold the highest standards of progressive leadership and ensure that Offa takes its rightful place in driving the sustainable development of Kwara State.
Political commentators regard Opadokun's endorsement as an immense moral and political validation of the SYD-ADATO ticket. This latest validation further cements Hon. Ogunniyi's home-base consensus, positioning him as the unifying figure across political, economic, and generational divides in Kwara South. The endorsement comes hot on the heels of the backing by prominent Offa business magnates and legal luminaries earlier in the week.
As a prominent figure in Nigeria's democratic struggle, Opadokun's endorsement is expected to have a significant impact on Ogunniyi's bid for the APC deputy governorship. Ogunniyi, representing Ojomu/Balogun Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, has demonstrated his commitment to progressive governance and grassroots development. His bid is seen as a strong indication of his capability to drive sustainable development in Kwara State.
The endorsement by Opadokun and other prominent figures in Kwara State is a significant boost to Ogunniyi's campaign. As the 2027 elections approach, Ogunniyi's chances of securing the APC deputy governorship appear to be increasing. With his commitment to progressive leadership and grassroots development, Ogunniyi is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact in Kwara State's politics.
Key points
- Chief Ayo Opadokun, a pro-democracy crusader, has endorsed Seun Ogunniyi Adato for Kwara State's APC deputy governor in 2027.
