Oladipupo Adebutu, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State, has stated that his name being omitted from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) final list will not hinder his political activities, including his campaign. He described the omission as a temporary distraction. Adebutu emphasized his commitment to his campaign, saying he has already visited 12 of the 20 local government areas and 140 of the 236 wards in his ongoing consultations.
The omission of Adebutu's name from the INEC list comes amid questions over his party membership, following allegations that his name was missing from the PDP membership register submitted to INEC. However, Adebutu insisted that he remained a committed member of the PDP, with a registration number of 1536. He noted that he has been a candidate of the party for over 20 years without leaving the party for a day, challenging anyone with proof that he ever visited another party office.
Adebutu expressed confidence in his party membership, stating that he was actively involved in organizing and financing the recent registration exercise in the state, which recorded about 19,800 members. He queried, "For somebody that registered 20,000, whose number is 1536? So, I don’t know the magic." Adebutu accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State of attempting to stifle opposition and shrink democratic space.
The PDP candidate alleged that his supporters were being harassed and denied space to erect billboards in the state, adding that opposition billboards were torn or destroyed. Despite the omission, Adebutu said he would not be distracted, emphasizing that there is justice in Nigeria. He stated that he was duly registered and orchestrated registration in the state.
Adebutu described the omission as an attempt to slow down the process and make the people disenfranchised and disenchanted. However, he added that it would not deter him, saying, "We will not be distracted. We keep our eyes on the ball, and we shall win." Adebutu received defectors from APC in Abeokuta on Monday, further solidifying his position as a viable candidate.
INEC had published a list of 13 candidates for the Ogun election, with no candidate representing the PDP. The lists were signed by INEC secretary Rose Oriaran-Anthony and published on the commission’s website. Adebutu's exclusion from the list has raised concerns about his eligibility to participate in the February 6, 2027, governorship election.
Adebutu's campaign insists that he will be on the ballot, despite INEC's affirmation of his exclusion. The development has sparked mixed reactions, with some stakeholders questioning the implications for the electoral process in Ogun State. As the situation unfolds, Adebutu remains resolute in his determination to participate in the election.
Key points
- Adebutu vows to continue campaign despite INEC list omission
- PDP candidate insists on party membership amid allegations
- Adebutu alleges APC attempts to stifle opposition in Ogun State
