The PDP gubernatorial candidate in the preceding Ogun State elections, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, asserts his eligibility to vie from any corner of Ogun State.
Adebutu made this assertion on Thursday during the 92nd commemoration of his late great grandfather, Pa Alimi Adebutu, who passed away in 1932 at Ijeun Akoni in Odeda LG area of Ogun State.
Hon. Adebutu, delving into his family history, elucidated that his late Paternal Great Grandfather begot his Grandfather, late Kareem Owoiya, who in turn fathered his father, Sir Kessington Adebukola Adebutu.
He emphasized that the benevolent legacy of his late great grandfather endures, garnering community remembrance 92 years later.
Inquired about the significance of his Egba lineage in his prospective political journey in 2027, Adebutu affirmed that since uncovering his ancestral roots a decade ago, he has never laid claim to being an Egba man. He asserted his right as a bona fide indigene of Ogun to stake his claim anywhere in the state.
“This lineage is age-old; I have never asserted my Egba heritage. The fact remains: I am Ogun through and through, entitled to traverse every corner of the state. Adebutu epitomizes Ogun; my heritage spans every inch of its territory.
“My grandfather, Pa Kareem Owoiya, born at Ijeun Akoni, was Egba by birth, making me an extension of that lineage.
“Ladi is not a newcomer. My heritage has positively influenced every major institution in Ogun State. My wealth-generating establishment resides in Ogun State. I am a true Ogun indigene.”
Reflecting on his defeat in the 2023 gubernatorial race, Hon. Adebutu attributed it to his straightforward and genteel political approach, which he believes cost him electoral success.
He cited his refusal to resort to violence against political adversaries as a reason for losing 99 polling units in the last election.
“I uphold belief in life beyond death. Hence, my politics shuns violence and desperation. Refusal to retaliate with violence led to the destruction of 99 polling units in the last election.
“I cannot endorse a process that undermines humanity. My ethos revolves around life’s continuity beyond death, guiding my actions with utmost caution.”