In a significant political development, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Ona Ara Chapter, led by its Chairman, Hon. Mosobalaje Bakare, paid a courtesy visit to the newly installed Asiwaju of Ona Ara Local Government and Jagun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, to encourage him to officially join the party and lead its 2027 gubernatorial bid.
During the visit, Hon. Bakare praised Chief Sanusi’s tireless efforts towards the growth and development of Ona Ara Local Government and Oyo State at large. He expressed gratitude for his unyielding support for the local government, noting that Sanusi has consistently championed initiatives that have positively impacted the community.
Speaking on behalf of the party, Hon. Taiwo Ibrahim, PDP Vice Chairman, emphasized that the visit was to formally recognize and appreciate Chief Sanusi’s contributions to both the local government and the state. Chief Waheed Ajao Adurodekun also highlighted Sanusi’s pivotal role in the success of the last local government elections, stating that his leadership before, during, and after the elections had made a lasting impact. Chief Adurodekun then urged Sanusi to give the party a date to formally register as a PDP member, signaling the party’s readiness to back his gubernatorial ambition.
Former Lagelu Local Government Chairman, Hon. Kazeem Gbadamosi, lauded the PDP leadership for taking this crucial step, encouraging the party to fully embrace Sanusi as their flag bearer for the 2027 gubernatorial election. He stressed that this would ensure the party remains competitive, especially with other political parties likely to show interest in Sanusi’s movement.
Former Ibadan North East Local Government Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi, also commended the PDP Ona Ara leadership for their proactive approach, urging party members at all levels to support Sanusi’s candidacy. He warned that if the PDP did not act swiftly, another party could seize the opportunity to present him as their candidate.
In his response, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi thanked the PDP for the visit and expressed appreciation for their recognition of his work. He reiterated that the JDS Gubernatorial movement is a reflection of the people’s will. “The movement is not about me; it’s driven by the people who want me to serve. If the PDP doesn’t offer me their platform, I will have no choice but to consider another party that aligns with the people’s demand,” Sanusi stated.
The meeting was attended by PDP leaders, including women and youth leaders, as well as party chairmen, Vice Chairmen and secretaries from wards all the 11 wards in Ona Ara Local Government.