Beyond Sentiments: Why Ogun West Can No Longer Be Ignored
The claim that no Ijebu man will support a candidate from Yewa is not only dismissive but also out of tune with today’s political realities. In any responsible and forward-looking political party, decisions are not built on ethnic sentiments or a sense of entitlement. Ogun State is bigger than any single senatorial district, and leadership should be about capacity, performance, acceptability, and fairness—not about who “owns” the state. The era when Ogun Central or Ogun East could be assumed as automatic choices is gradually fading, as many political and demographic factors now work against such narrow calculations.
Since 1979, Ogun West has consistently been marginalized in terms of top political representation, yet it has also demonstrated resilience and maturity. For the first time, the district witnessed what purposeful representation looks like through Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi). His tenure redefined the meaning of dividends of democracy in Ogun West—visible projects, regular and impactful empowerment programmes, and effective representation that connected governance to the people. Under his watch, Ogun West also enjoyed ministerial appointments and a renewed sense of belonging at the national level. These are not mere slogans; they are tangible records that speak louder than long-held prejudices.
Beyond performance, demographics and development are reshaping the political map. The population of Yewa-Awori has grown significantly, driven by improved road networks and expanding urban settlements. Sango, Ota, and Owode-Idiroko have become major hubs—almost a Mecca for new homeowners seeking proximity to Lagos while remaining within Ogun State. This growth has translated into increased political strength, voter population, and economic relevance. The old politics of divide-and-rule among the Yewa people is giving way to unity, awareness, and collective purpose.
In today’s Ogun State, any serious party that hopes to win must look beyond outdated assumptions and sectional dominance. Ogun West, with its growing population, proven leadership capacity, and renewed unity, has what it takes to challenge the traditional strongholds. The conversation should no longer be about where a candidate comes from, but about who has the vision, the courage, and the credibility to lead Ogun State into the future.
By omo Oba
Akin Alade
