Akinbola Rotham, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) candidate for the Ogun State governorship, has withdrawn a suit challenging the eligibility of Senator Solomon Adeola, also known as Yayi, to contest the 2027 governorship election. The suit, numbered FHC/AB/CS/135/2026, questioned Adeola's claim to Ogun State indigeneship. Rotham stated that the decision to withdraw the suit was made in the interest of the Ogun West agenda and the overall development of the state.
Adeola's indigeneship has been a subject of controversy, with some politicians questioning his claim to hail from Pahayi, Ilaro, in Yewa South Local Government Area. Rotham emphasized that the collective aspiration of Ogun West to produce a governor after decades of waiting is more important than individual political ambitions. He described Adeola as his brother and fellow Ogun West contestant, advocating for healthy and constructive political competition.
Rotham argued that governance should focus on competence, capacity, character, accountability, and the ability to deliver good governance, rather than disputes over an aspirant's place of birth, parentage, or indigeneship. He stated that the NNPP, as an opposition party, should engage constructively with other political parties when such cooperation can advance the interests of the people.
The NNPP candidate mentioned that Adeola's association with President Bola Tinubu's political camp was another reason he did not want the legal dispute to become an unnecessary distraction. Rotham denied that his withdrawal was influenced by money, financial gratification, or any political settlement, stating that he and Adeola had not met personally before the matter.
Rotham emphasized that his decision was entirely based on principle, reflection, and his conviction that the collective interest of Ogun West and Ogun State must come before personal ambition. He maintained that he remained committed to the 2027 governorship contest and looked forward to meeting Adeola and engaging with him as a fellow contestant while working with other stakeholders for the development of Ogun State.
The withdrawal of the suit has significant implications for the 2027 Ogun State governorship election, as it paves the way for a united front in the Ogun West region. Rotham's decision is seen as a move to promote unity and focus on the development of the state. The NNPP candidate's commitment to the contest is expected to foster a competitive and issue-based campaign.
The development is also expected to have a positive impact on the political landscape of Ogun State, as it demonstrates a willingness among politicians to prioritize the interests of the state over personal ambitions. The 2027 governorship election is anticipated to be a crucial milestone in the state's history, with various stakeholders vying for the top position.
Key points
- Akinbola Rotham withdraws suit challenging Senator Solomon Adeola's eligibility
- Decision made in interest of Ogun West agenda and state development
- Rotham remains committed to 2027 governorship contest
