Comrade Akinbola Rotham, the New Nigeria Peoples Party's governorship candidate in Ogun State, has withdrawn his suit challenging Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, also known as Yayi, for the 2027 election. The suit, marked FHC/AB/CS/135/2026, was filed at the Federal High Court in Abeokuta. Rotham announced the withdrawal during a press conference, citing the best interest of Ogun West and its 50-year agitation for a governor.
Rotham emphasized that both he and Yayi are sons of Ogun West and co-contestants in the 2027 race. He believes that the collective interest of the zone should come before personal ambition. Continuing the suit would not serve Ogun West's interest or Nigeria's democratic culture, he argued. Democracy should focus on competence, capacity, character, and ability to deliver good governance, rather than sentiments of origin.
The NNPP candidate described Yayi as his brother and advocated for a healthy and constructive contest. He noted that their competition should not destroy the unity required to advance Ogun West. Rotham's decision aligns with the NNPP's philosophy, which regards other parties as sister parties, not enemies. He also took the decision out of respect for President Bola Tinubu and to avoid unnecessary distractions.
Rotham dismissed insinuations that he was induced with money, insisting that he has never met Yayi personally and that the withdrawal was based on principle. He clarified that his decision was not influenced by financial gratification, political settlement, or personal inducement. The withdrawal was a reflection of his conviction that the collective interest of Ogun West and Ogun State must come before personal ambition.
Despite withdrawing the suit, Rotham remains in the 2027 governorship race and is committed to producing an Ogun West governor. He emphasized that his aspiration is driven by the desire to advance the interests of Ogun West and its people. The NNPP candidate expressed his commitment to a healthy and constructive contest with Yayi and other candidates.
The development is significant in the context of Ogun State's politics, particularly given the 50-year agitation for an Ogun West governor. Rotham's decision may have implications for the 2027 election and the political landscape of the state. The NNPP's stance on sister parties and not enemies also underscores the party's approach to politics.
The withdrawal of the suit has been seen as a principled decision by Rotham, who prioritized the collective interest of Ogun West over personal ambition. The 2027 governorship election in Ogun State is expected to be closely contested, with various candidates vying for the position.
Key points
- Rotham withdraws suit against Yayi's eligibility for 2027 election.
- Decision based on principle and collective interest of Ogun West.
- Rotham remains in the 2027 governorship race.
