Ondo South 2027: Ex-Deputy Gov Ajayi Declares Senate Bid, Pushes Zoning and Experience

Ex-Deputy Gov Ajayi Declares Senate Bid, Pushes Zoning and Experience

A former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Agboola Ajayi, has formally declared his intention to contest the Ondo South Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, anchoring his ambition on zoning, political experience, and widespread grassroots support.

Ajayi, who previously represented his constituency in the House of Representatives between 2007 and 2011, made his declaration while addressing journalists, highlighting his long-standing involvement in public service across various levels of governance.

According to him, the decision followed extensive consultations with key stakeholders, including traditional rulers, political leaders within the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

“I have traversed different levels of leadership—from councillor to local government chairman, party secretary, Deputy Governor, and member of the National Assembly. I believe the time has come to return and complete the unfinished projects for our people,” Ajayi stated.

Zoning and Equity Argument

Ajayi strongly emphasized zoning as a central pillar of his ambition, arguing that fairness demands that his local government be given the opportunity to produce the next senator.

He noted that among the six local governments in Ondo South, his remains the only one yet to occupy the senatorial seat in the current democratic dispensation.

“By all standards of equity and political balance, it is our turn,” he said.

He further extended the zoning principle to Ese-Odo Local Government Area, maintaining that after previous arrangements favored an Apoi candidate for the House of Assembly, it is now the turn of Arogbo to produce the next representative.

Position on Incumbent Senator

Speaking on reports surrounding the current senator, Jimoh Ibrahim, Ajayi called for political maturity and continuity, dismissing any suggestion of conflict between them.

He revealed that both leaders have held discussions and maintained a cordial relationship.

“We are not enemies. Political differences do not make us adversaries. I met him, and we had a productive conversation,” he said.

Ajayi also ruled out participation in any potential by-election, stressing that his focus remains firmly on the 2027 general elections.

APC Primaries and Internal Politics

Addressing concerns about internal divisions within the APC in Ondo State, Ajayi dismissed fears of candidate imposition, insisting that the party’s processes remain credible.

“The APC has clear guidelines—consensus where possible, and primaries where necessary. No individual can impose a candidate in Ondo State,” he said.

He also described himself as a unifying figure, distancing himself from factional alignments within the party.

“At my level, I should serve as a bridge, not a factional politician,” he added.

On PDP Factor and Popularity

Reacting to concerns that former members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may face challenges within the APC, Ajayi downplayed such fears, emphasizing his personal popularity and political relevance.

“Politics is about individuals and acceptance by the people. My name resonates across Ondo State,” he said.

“Senate Not for Learners”

Ajayi stressed the importance of experience in legislative responsibilities, warning against electing inexperienced candidates.

“The Senate is not a place for trial and error. It requires individuals who understand governance and national issues,” he noted.

Track Record and Development Agenda

Highlighting his achievements in office, Ajayi cited key infrastructure projects facilitated during his tenure, including a 132KV electricity substation that improved power supply in Ondo South, as well as major road and bridge projects linking the region to Delta State.

He, however, expressed concern that several of these projects were left uncompleted.

“I laid foundations for major development, but many projects were not completed. That is why I seek to return—to finish what was started,” he said.

Call for Unity

Ajayi concluded by urging political stakeholders to prioritize unity and collective development, warning that internal divisions have slowed progress in the state.

“We must set aside differences and focus on moving Ondo State forward. Other Southwest states are advancing—we must not be left behind,” he said.

With his declaration, political activities ahead of the 2027 Ondo South senatorial election are expected to intensify, particularly around zoning debates and party alignments.