The Ogun State Muslim Council has installed Hajia Lateefat 'Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo, the Peoples Democratic Party's deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 election, as its Grand Matron (Egba Zone). The installation ceremony, held at the Ake Palace in Abeokuta on October 1, 2026, was attended by Muslim leaders, political stakeholders, and traditional figures. The event's theme, "Socio-Economic Stability: A Fortress for Global Security," underscored the significance of the occasion.
Sowunmi-Kolapo, also known as the Iya Sunnah of Egbaland and Ameerah of Ogun State, expressed her gratitude to the Ogun State Muslim Council for the honour. She described the installation as a demonstration of confidence and support from the Muslim community. The new Grand Matron prayed for guidance and fruitful journey in her new role, following in the footsteps of her predecessor, late Chief Khadijah Adebisi Edionseri.
The installation has taken on political significance ahead of the 2027 governorship election. Sowunmi-Kolapo used the occasion to call for increased civic participation among Muslims and urged voters to reject electoral violence, vote-buying, and political apathy. She emphasized the importance of Muslims taking an active role in determining the political leadership of the country.
Sowunmi-Kolapo stressed that the Muslim community must not remain passive in matters concerning its future. She cited the advice of an elder statesman, who emphasized that religious leaders should not expect their needs to be met without struggle. The PDP candidate urged Muslim parents, leaders, and community stakeholders to educate their children and wards on responsible democratic participation.
The new Grand Matron emphasized that electoral participation should be peaceful and driven by citizens' choices rather than inducements. She encouraged Muslims to recognize the importance of political power in protecting their interests and heritage. Sowunmi-Kolapo's message broadened from religious leadership to civic and political participation.
The Ogun State Muslim Council's Egba Zone had earlier used the occasion to draw attention to the importance of socio-economic stability in achieving global security. The council's remarks underscored the need for collective action in promoting a stable and secure environment. The installation ceremony marked a significant milestone in Sowunmi-Kolapo's political journey.
Sowunmi-Kolapo thanked the Muslim community for their support throughout her political journey, describing it as unprecedented. As the newly installed Grand Matron, she pledged to work towards promoting the interests of the Muslim community and protecting their heritage. The event marked a new chapter in Sowunmi-Kolapo's role as a leader in Ogun State.
Key points
- Ogun State Muslim Council installs Hajia Lateefat 'Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo as Grand Matron.
- Sowunmi-Kolapo urges Muslims to take an active role in determining the political leadership of the country.
- The installation ceremony marks a significant milestone in Sowunmi-Kolapo's political journey ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
