By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement, APM, in Ogun State, Babajide Rotimi, has pledged to run an all-inclusive, transparent and people-driven administration if elected governor, stressing that governance must be anchored on broad participation, accountability and shared prosperity.

Babajide, who stated this while speaking with journalists shortly after emerging as the party’s flagbearer at its governorship primary election, dismissed claims that Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, constitutes a threat to his 2027 governorship ambition, insisting that political competition remains a vital component of democracy.

Describing his emergence as the fulfilment of a long-held aspiration, Rotimi said it reflected the collective will and patience of party supporters who desire a new style of leadership in Ogun State.

“I feel elated and fulfilled. It is a dream come true and a day we have all been waiting for. We are grateful that it has finally come to pass,” he said.

Outlining his vision for the state, Rotimi identified inclusive governance as the cornerstone of his administration, assuring residents that every citizen would have a sense of belonging regardless of political affiliation, ethnic background or social status.

“My administration will ensure that every citizen counts, irrespective of background or political affiliation. My plan is people-centred governance where everybody will be respected and connected.

“It will be a transparent government where citizens are active participants, not spectators,” he stated.

The governorship candidate further highlighted infrastructure development, rural transformation and agricultural expansion as key priorities of his administration, noting that Ogun’s status as an emerging industrial hub must translate into tangible benefits for residents.

“All resources accruing to the state must directly improve the lives of the people. Our goal is to ensure that Ogun State residents are the true beneficiaries of their God-given and constitutional resources,” he added.

Speaking on the growing political activities ahead of the 2027 elections, Rotimi dismissed suggestions that political heavyweights in rival parties could intimidate him, maintaining that leadership is defined by vision and service rather than popularity or crowd size.

“I don’t see anyone as a threat. We are all in the race to serve. At the end of the day, someone will emerge, but the focus should be on why we are contesting — to deliver purposeful leadership to the people,” he said.

He called for issue-based campaigns and a collective commitment to the development of Ogun State, arguing that inclusive leadership remains the surest path to sustainable progress.

Also speaking, the party’s candidate for Ogun Central Senatorial District, Hon. Idowu Imoleayo, urged voters to reject moneybag politics, insisting that electoral victory ultimately comes from God.

While acknowledging that he may not possess the financial strength of candidates from other political parties, Idowu expressed confidence in his chances.

“All victory belongs to God. I may not have the financial capacity that some of them have because they have been in the system for years, but I believe in myself and I believe in God that I will win this race,” he said.

Idowu also criticised the current administration in Ogun State, alleging poor performance in critical sectors.

“They have not delivered adequately to the people of Ogun State. There are challenges in healthcare, road infrastructure, education and security. The people deserve better governance,” he said.

Meanwhile, the state chairman of the party, Sanyaolu, expressed confidence that the APM would spring a surprise in the 2027 governorship election.

According to him, electoral success would not be determined by financial strength or crowd size but by the people’s connection with a candidate and divine support.

“Everything in life is not about the amount of money in your account or the size of your crowd. That is a lesson I have always held dear,” Sanyaolu said.

He described Rotimi, an indigene of Aribajo in Awekoro Local Government Area, as a grassroots politician who understands the needs and aspirations of ordinary people.

“Oluwarotimi may not possess the kind of wealth some others have, but there is someone greater than wealth — God Almighty. I believe God will support him because he trusts in Him, and I also have strong faith in God,” he said.