Oladipupo Adebutu, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State, has faulted the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to leave out his name from the list of governorship candidates.
Adebutu, in a statement addressing the development, said he remained a registered member of the PDP and had completed the necessary registration and documentation within the stipulated period.
“I have not at any point left the PDP, and my commitment to our great party remains unwavering,” he said.
According to him, the governorship primary that produced him as the party’s candidate was conducted with INEC officials present as observers, adding that relevant documents were submitted for verification, certification and confirmation.
The PDP candidate said the circumstances surrounding the exclusion raised concerns, particularly as other party candidates contesting for the House of Assembly, House of Representatives and Senate had appeared on INEC’s published lists.
Adebutu said the Ogun State PDP had expressed concern over what it described as undue pressure from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on INEC, adding that the party would pursue the matter through appropriate channels.
“We will pursue this matter through the appropriate channels and insist that due process is respected,” he said.
He also alleged that the party had faced attempts to frustrate its campaign, including restrictions on its billboards, attacks at campaign grounds and harassment of members.
According to him, such challenges would not deter the party from participating in the democratic process or seeking the support of voters across the state.
“No amount of intimidation should prevent the people of Ogun State from having a fair opportunity to choose leaders of choice,” Adebutu said.
He urged PDP members, supporters and residents of Ogun State to remain calm while the party takes the necessary steps to address the omission.
“The party has spoken, and the necessary steps are being taken to address this matter. I remain confident that it will be resolved, and I assure you that I will not abandon the struggle to bring the leadership and relief our people deserve,” he said.
Adebutu described the party’s ambition as a broader effort to improve the welfare and development of Ogun State, rather than a struggle centred on an individual.
“Our cause is bigger than any individual. It is about the dignity of our people, the progress of our state and the right of Ogun people to determine our own future,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to the party’s campaign message, Adebutu said, “OGUN FOR OGUN is more than a slogan. It is a call for leadership rooted in our people, responsive to our needs and committed to our welfare.”
He concluded by urging supporters to remain focused and resolute, declaring: “The journey to a better Ogun continues.”
