Ogun 2027: Everywhere You Go, It’s Yayi

Ogun State is currently engaged in a political race to determine its next governor. Leading the race is Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, also known as Yayi, who campaigns on the slogan “Yayi ni, Yayi ni jọọ́.” This catchy phrase aims to convey his message of confidence, reinforce his political identity and signal broad acceptance. The campaign is tailored to engage various segments of the state population, including okada riders, transport workers, traders, artisans, professionals, and civil servants.

However, the public is now faced with a crucial question: what accomplishments does Yayi have to back up the promises he is making? While the slogan alone may not be sufficient for a governorship bid, especially in a politically astute and economically diverse state like Ogun, Adeola’s background, network, and growing visibility in the state contribute significantly to his appeal.

His legislative career, spanning the Lagos State House of Assembly, the House of Representatives, and now the Senate, where he represents Ogun West Senatorial District, provides him with valuable insights into lawmaking, public finance, and constituency representation.

A critical aspect of his political strategy is his role as chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations. This position grants him a unique perspective on federal budget negotiations and public expenditure, which could prove invaluable in advocating for development projects in Ogun. The committee oversees the federal budget, plays a key role in scrutinizing expenditure, and coordinates legislative work on appropriations.

In Adeola’s case, this experience positions him well to ensure that federal funds are allocated effectively to projects that benefit Ogun.

In the first three years of his Senate tenure, Adeola has overseen what observers describe as an infrastructure revolution in Ogun West. He has overseen the completion of approximately 300 projects across the district. These projects span various sectors, including construction and rehabilitation of roads (115 projects), school buildings with over 150 new classrooms, primary healthcare centers (32), two intensive care units, markets, town halls, ICT centers, libraries, and police stations.

Notably, strategic roads that had been neglected for decades have been restored, such as the Imasayi-Ayetoro Road, Ilashe-Koko-Alari Road, Ilaro-Owode Road, Atan-Agbara Road, Kajola and Iboro network, Baba Emili Road, Isale Araba Road, Ebute Igbooro Road, and Palace Roads.

In the power sector, Adeola has also made significant strides. Over 200 electric transformers were donated and installed, 250 solar streetlight projects comprising about 26,000 poles have been deployed, and 10 major electricity infrastructures were repaired, restoring electricity to 100 communities. In 2026, to mark his 56th birthday, he donated transformers to additional areas in Ogun East, indicating his commitment to a statewide approach to development.

Beyond his infrastructure initiatives, Adeola’s approach to constituency representation is noteworthy. He has established the “Oloja Yayi” Market Support Fund, which started with N25,000 grants to 5,000 traders during his Senate campaign. This fund has since grown, with additional grants of N50,000 each provided to 5,000 traders across various local governments. This initiative demonstrates his commitment to empowering local businesses and directly engaging with the community.

The effectiveness of representation is ultimately measured by tangible outcomes. Adeola’s record of completed projects, especially in critical areas like roads, healthcare, power, and market support, suggests he has made substantial contributions to Ogun State’s development. His legislative background, coupled with his hands-on approach to governance, positions him as a strong contender for the governorship, providing a basis for the “Yayi” campaign beyond mere rhetoric.