Oyo 2027: I have no anointed candidate – Olubadan declares

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has declared that he does not have an anointed gubernatorial candidate for the 2027 election in Oyo State. This assertion comes after insinuations that he had made such a choice. Ladoja, a former governor of the state, made this statement while receiving the gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barrister Hazeem Gbolarumi, at his palace.

Gbolarumi, a former deputy governor of the state, was flanked by the PDP State Chairman, Professor Abdulrahman Akinoso, the State Secretary, Dr Biola Olanipekun, and other party officials. Gbolarumi, during his address, expressed his intention to seek the support of the traditional ruler for the forthcoming gubernatorial election.

He emphasized that he is the first person to come to the palace for this purpose. Akinoso, in his contribution, highlighted that this visit was necessary considering the upcoming campaigns. He stated that the PDP in Oyo State has its executive members and candidates across the state, and some have been unable to attend the palace today.

The traditional ruler, in his response, clarified that he has no anointed candidate. He stated that all the gubernatorial candidates in the state are his children, implying that they are part of the same family. Ladoja further appealed to the candidates and their supporters to avoid any form of violence during the campaigns. He urged them to remember that their enemy today could be their best friend tomorrow.