AKINYELE CONSTITUENCY 1: STAKEHOLDERS SPLIT AS RUKAYAT BALOGUN INSISTS ON GOVERNOR’S PROMISE AHEAD OF 2027
Political tension is building in Akinyele Constituency 1 of Oyo State as key stakeholders and leaders within the constituency appear divided over the 2027 House of Assembly ticket.
Hon. (Mrs.) Rukayat Tolani Balogun has firmly rejected any moves toward a consensus arrangement, maintaining that she did not step down for anyone at any point in time and remains the rightful aspirant based on an alleged prior promise made by Governor Seyi Makinde after the tenure of the incumbent representative, Lekan Abiola Monsuru.
At a recent stakeholders’ gathering, prominent political figures including Hon. Jelili Adeleke, Elder Gbolagun, Engineer Akinsola, Oloye Akin-Aderibigbe, Baba Odewenwa, Alhaji Tirimisiyu Olaibi, Alhaji Arowosaye, Alhaji Gasali, Hon. Dayo Opatokun, Mr. Akintola (Secretary), and Hon. Lateef (Party Chairman) reportedly expressed reservations about the unfolding political situation.
Some of the leaders, particularly Oloye Akin-Aderibigbe, Elder Gbolagun, and Hon. Jelili Adeleke, were quoted as questioning the political strength of the incumbent, stating that Lekan Abiola “didn’t merit 5%,” while stressing that their support for Rukayat Balogun depends on a clear position from the Governor regarding his earlier promise.
According to sources, the stakeholders acknowledged that they do not dispute that Governor Makinde had made a promise to Rukayat Balogun. However, they insisted she should personally engage the Governor to reaffirm his commitment.
We are not against her, one of the stakeholders reportedly stated. But she should go and remind the Governor herself of what was promised.
Despite this stance, Hon. Rukayat Balogun remains resolute. She insists that the time has come for the promise to be fulfilled, emphasizing her loyalty to the party and noting that she never withdrew or stepped aside for any aspirant throughout the political process.
Her supporters argue that beyond political considerations, fairness and equity demand that the agreement be honored, especially as she represents female participation in leadership, a cause the Governor has publicly supported.
The unfolding development has now placed attention squarely on Governor Seyi Makinde, as party members and constituents call on him to clarify his position and fulfill what is widely described as a standing political commitment.
As 2027 approaches, the situation in Akinyele Constituency 1 continues to generate debate, with many awaiting the Governor’s response on whether the promise to Hon. Rukayat Balogun will be upheld.
The coming weeks are expected to be decisive in shaping the political future of the constituency.
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