Dr. Abayomi Arabambi
In Yoruba culture, there is a profound saying: "Ọba tó bá f'ọwọ́ kan ọmọ, ọmọ yẹn ó ní'lẹ̀ ayé" – When a king lays his hand upon a child, that child is destined for greatness. This timeless wisdom perfectly encapsulates the extraordinary political journey of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, affectionately known as YAYI, as he secures an unprecedented sweep of royal endorsements ahead of the 2027 Ogun State gubernatorial race.
Never before in the history of Ogun State has any governorship aspirant received the blessings of all four paramount rulers representing the major divisions of the state – Remo, Ijebu, Yewa, and Egba, collectively known by the significant acronym RIYE. This remarkable achievement is not just a political milestone but a cultural phenomenon that signals a seismic shift in Ogun State's political landscape.
The significance of these royal endorsements cannot be overstated in Yoruba tradition. Our kings are more than just ceremonial figures; they are the living embodiments of our history, the custodians of our values, and the spiritual anchors of our communities.
When the Awujale of Ijebu Land Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, appointed Senator YAYI as Chairman of the prestigious 2025 Ojude Oba festival, it was more than an honour – it was a silent coronation of sorts.
The Ojude Oba festival is the cultural heartbeat of Ijebuland, and to be entrusted with its leadership is a clear indication of the monarch's faith in YAYI's capability and integrity. This appointment, coming on the heels of YAYI's visible infrastructural developments across Ogun East, spoke volumes about his growing acceptance beyond his Ogun West stronghold.
The royal endorsements gained momentum when the Olu of Ilaro and paramount ruler of Yewaland,
Oba Dr. Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle MFR, Asade Agunloye IV, became the first to openly bless YAYI's gubernatorial ambition. In a moving public declaration, the royal father affirmed, "YAYI is the leader we trust to bridge Ogun West's developmental gaps. His legislative record shows he walks the talk." This endorsement was particularly poignant as it came from the traditional leader of YAYI's own senatorial district, demonstrating that the senator's excellence was first recognized at home before gaining wider acceptance.
The political landscape shifted dramatically when the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland,
HRM Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo , extended his royal blessing during the commissioning of a massive hall constructed at Sam Ewang Estate in Abeokuta. The symbolic handshake between the monarch and the senator sent shockwaves through political circles, as Egba land represents not just a geographical zone but the political nerve center of Ogun State. For an Ogun West son to gain such acceptance in the state capital spoke to YAYI's unique ability to transcend regional politics and build bridges across the state's diverse constituencies.
The royal endorsement cycle reached its historic completion when the Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, Torungbuwa II.added his royal majesty voice to the growing chorus of support during the Remo Traditional Council Retreat.
In what many observers have described as a masterstroke, Senator YAYI served as Guest Lecturer at this important gathering, delivering an insightful presentation on "The Role of the Legislature in Shaping a Holistic Budget in Nigeria." His brilliant exposition before over 40 royal fathers demonstrated not just his technical grasp of governance issues but his deep respect for traditional institutions.
The Akarigbo's subsequent endorsement carried special weight: "Senator YAYI, I deeply appreciate you. I recognize your worth and the tremendous strides you are making for the good people of Ogun West. Your dedication to infrastructural development, youth empowerment, and legislative excellence is evident and commendable."
What makes these endorsements truly remarkable is how they reflect YAYI's proven track record of performance. Across Ogun West, his infrastructural projects have become reference points for effective representation. From road constructions to educational interventions, healthcare initiatives to youth empowerment programs, YAYI has demonstrated an uncommon commitment to grassroots development.
His legislative record at the national level further cements his reputation as a performer, with several impactful bills and motions to his credit. The royal fathers, known for their wisdom in identifying true leaders, have clearly seen in YAYI the qualities needed to steer Ogun State to greater heights.
As the 2027 elections approach, the implications of these royal blessings are profound. In Yoruba politics, when kings speak, the people listen. The RIYE endorsements have created a formidable momentum that transcends ordinary political calculations.
They represent a unification of Ogun State's diverse regions behind a single vision of progress and inclusive development. For the people of Ogun State, this moment heralds the possibility of a new era – one where competence trumps division, where performance outweighs empty promises, and where the entire state can move forward as one.
The journey ahead remains challenging, but with such overwhelming traditional support, Senator YAYI stands at the threshold of history. As another Yoruba proverb reminds us: "Ọrọ̀ ọba kì í ṣe àṣìṣe" – The word of a king cannot be in vain. With all four paramount rulers speaking with one voice in his favour, the people of Ogun State may well be witnessing the emergence of their next transformational leader.
The foundations have been laid, the blessings have been given, and the path forward is clear. What remains is for the good people of Ogun State to embrace this historic opportunity for progress and unity under Senator YAYI's visionary leadership.
Dr Abayomi Arabambi (FBAU)
Nigeria Most Non-Controversial & Most Non- Confrontational Political Personality
8th Day Of July 2025
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