Following the postponement of the Oyo South Senatorial District PDP Stakeholders’ Meeting with Governor Seyi Makinde, a frontline 2027 governorship aspirant and member representing Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West federal constituency of Oyo state in the House of Representatives, Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, has called on political actors in the state to embrace issue-based politics.
He warned governorship aspirants to desist from what he described as the growing trend of distraction and mudslinging, noting that it is imperative to focus on issues and campaign with manifestoes that can convince residents of the state on their capacity to move Oyo State after the unprecedented achievements of Governor Makinde.
It would be recalled that after the Oyo State Senatorial District PDP Stakeholders’ Meeting with His Excellency, Governor Makinde, was postponed on Monday, some social media and online media users tried to push false and unverified narratives about Odidiomo.
The lawmaker has, however, cautioned against the spread of unsubstantiated claims, noting that such tendencies do little to advance democratic values or the developmental aspirations of the state.
A statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Tolu Mustapha, quoted Odidiomo as stating that while he would not join issues with any individual or group, it’s important to note that “moments such as this demand maturity, restraint and a deliberate shift from personality-based politics to a focus on governance, performance and the future of Oyo state.”
He said: “Experience has shown that periods of political transition often come with heightened speculation and orchestrated narratives.
“However, as responsible stakeholders, we must rise above distractions and channel our energy towards constructive engagement that benefits our people.”
He emphasised that the real conversation before the people of Oyo state is not one of controversy, but of continuity, consolidation and expansion of the gains already recorded under the present administration.
Olajide Odidiomo called on party faithful and the general public to align with the vision of Governor Makinde, whose administration, he noted, has redefined governance through deliberate policies in infrastructure, human capital development and institutional reforms.
“The task before us is clear, which is to sustain the progress already made. This requires unity, disciplined engagement and a commitment to developmental politics, not a descent into needless distractions,” he stated.
Restating his personal stance, the two-term PDP federal lawmaker noted that his focus remains firmly on his legislative responsibilities and the pursuit of his governorship aspiration through legitimate and democratic means.
“I remain fully committed to my mandate at the House of Representatives, while continuing to engage stakeholders across the state within the bounds of law and democratic ethics. Our ambition is anchored on service, not noise,” he added.
Olajide further urged stakeholders to “give development a chance” by promoting ideas, policies and programmes capable of advancing the state, rather than amplifying divisive narratives.
He maintained that Oyo State stands at a critical point where the quality of political engagement will determine the trajectory of its future, stressing that history will favour those who prioritize substance over spectacle.
“As a people, we must decide whether to be consumed by distractions or to stay focused on the bigger picture of maintaining the peace, progress and prosperity of Oyo State. The choice is ours,” the statement read in part.
