Abeokuta – Reactions have continued to trail the recent remarks by the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, over a public lecture delivered by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, in the state on Sunday.
A member of the Federal Character Commission representing Ogun State, Kayode Oladele, has described the deputy governor’s comments as unnecessary and condemnable.
In a letter addressed to Salako-Oyedele, Oladele, a former member of the House of Representatives, said the Senate Leader neither sought to interfere in the internal political affairs of Ogun State nor undermine its leadership structure. He added that such interpretations do not promote constructive engagement and run contrary to the inclusive ethos of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Oladele described the remarks as a misreading of Bamidele’s intent, noting that the Senate Leader’s intervention was rooted in dialogue, reflection and a commitment to party cohesion, equity and stability.
He emphasized that Governor Dapo Abiodun and Senator Bamidele share a long-standing cordial relationship built on mutual respect and political alliance, cautioning stakeholders against actions that could jeopardize that relationship in the interest of the party.
“Respect for the leadership of His Excellency, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, as governor and party leader in Ogun State, is absolute,” Oladele said, adding that attempts to draw the governor into avoidable controversy would be misplaced.
Oladele further noted that, as a constitutionally recognized national officer and key stakeholder in the ruling party, Senator Bamidele is entitled to express views on issues affecting the party across the federation, including Ogun State.
He maintained that acknowledging the long-standing calls for fairness and inclusion in Ogun West does not amount to prescribing outcomes or undermining party discipline, but reflects political maturity and responsiveness to stakeholder concerns.
Calling for restraint, Oladele urged party leaders and stakeholders to prioritize unity and preserve critical relationships within the APC as discussions around the Ogun West governorship aspiration continue ahead of the 2027 elections.
Bamidele, during the lecture organised by Ogun State Professionals for Yayi, had reportedly described Senator Olamilekan Adeola as a marketable candidate for the state’s governorship ticket in 2027.
The deputy governor, in a private message to the Senate Leader that was later leaked, accused Bamidele of interfering in the internal political affairs of the state, adding that there is a recognized political leader in Ogun State and that the Ekiti-born senator had crossed a line.
