The Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, has called on residents, political parties, media organizations, and civil society groups to thoroughly scrutinize all candidates seeking to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun in the 2027 governorship election, regardless of their political affiliations.
​Oba Akinyemi made the call on Saturday, August 29, 2026, while speaking with journalists during a media briefing held at his newly built private residence in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
​Addressing members of the press, the traditional ruler emphasized that the search for the next governor must transcend partisan politics, ethnic sentiments, and political zoning. He noted that the state’s future and development hinge on electing a leader with proven competence, a clean track record, and a strong family background.
​”Whoever is going to be the governor of Ogun State should be thoroughly cross-examined,” Oba Akinyemi stated. “We don’t have any other place to call our state. So, whoever wants to take over from the governor, we should put politics aside, irrespective of the party. The press, the media, and civil society organisations should bring everybody together and investigate them thoroughly, including their family background.”
​While acknowledging that the agitation for Ogun West (Yewa-Awori) to produce the governor in 2027 remains legitimate given historical political marginalization, the royal father cautioned stakeholders against sacrificing capacity for regional sentiment.
​”Yes, Yewa is expected to have the government because we have been marginalised. You cannot erase that fact, but don’t sacrifice competence for zoning,” he added.
​Oba Akinyemi also addressed friction among political figures in Ogun West, specifically advising leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to set up a dispute resolution committee to reconcile prominent aspirants, including Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) and Hon. Joseph Oladapo Hunye, to maintain unity within the region.
