By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

Leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency of Ogun State, have unanimously endorsed former Commissioner for Women and Social Development, Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, as the party’s consensus candidate for the House of Representatives, ahead of the forthcoming elections.

The endorsement, which came during separate stakeholders’ engagements held in Ifo and Ewekoro local government areas, was described by party leaders as a reflection of inclusiveness, fairness and internal democracy in line with the ideals of the APC.

The aspiration of Adeleye also received royal blessings from prominent traditional rulers across the constituency, further strengthening her emergence as the preferred candidate of the party.

Speaking during the engagements, the Olu of Itori and Chairman of Progressives Obas, Oba Fatai Akamo, as well as the Olorile of Orile-Ifo, Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, expressed confidence in Adeleye’s capacity to deliver quality representation to the people of the constituency.

The monarchs noted that her emergence would foster inclusiveness and ensure that every segment of the constituency enjoys a sense of belonging.

Political leaders at the meetings commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for sustaining what they described as equity, justice and fairness within the APC.

Among dignitaries present were the Ogun State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, and former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olakunle Oluomo.

The party leaders disclosed that extensive consultations among stakeholders across the constituency culminated in the consensus arrangement that produced Adeleye.

According to them, “it is only fair and politically expedient for Ifo local government to produce the next member of the House of Representatives in the spirit of equity, balance and justice.”

The leaders also acknowledged the contributions of the Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim, describing his representation at the National Assembly as impactful.

They, however, urged party members and supporters to mobilize massively for all APC consensus candidates in the forthcoming elections.

Speaking at the gathering, the APC Chairman in Ewekoro local government, Alhaji Ayinde Sogbamu, stressed the need for unity and cohesion within the party ahead of the polls.

“The collective interest of the party must supersede personal ambitions if we truly desire victory and sustainable progress,” Sogbamu said.

Similarly, the APC Chairman in Ifo local government, Barr. Olumide Oduwole, described Adeleye as a loyal, dependable and committed party stalwart who has remained steadfast in promoting the ideals of the APC.

“In the interest of fairness and inclusiveness, Hon. Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye remains tested and trusted. She possesses the experience and credibility needed to fly the flag of our great party, and we must all support her candidature for victory at the polls,” Oduwole stated.

Responding, Adeleye expressed appreciation to party leaders, elders and members for what she described as their unwavering commitment to loyalty, fairness and unity within the APC.

She commended Governor Abiodun for ensuring justice and inclusiveness across the constituency.

“History will be kind to Governor Dapo Abiodun for standing firmly on the side of fairness and ensuring that every section of the constituency is adequately carried along,” she said.

The former commissioner assured party faithful and residents of effective and people-oriented representation if elected into the House of Representatives.

“I remain committed to addressing the needs and aspirations of our people. This project is about service, development and collective progress for every community within Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency,” Adeleye added.

As part of efforts to strengthen the party structure at the grassroots, Adeleye also announced plans to donate a generating set and electric fans to the APC secretariat in Ewekoro.

The meetings were attended by ward chairmen, councillors, women and youth leaders, party executives, apex leaders and other stakeholders from Ifo and Ewekoro Local Government Areas.