Pro-democracy crusader and former Secretary-General of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Chief Ayo Opadokun, has added voice to the aspiration of Seun Ogunniyi Adato as the Kwara State’s All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governor in 2027.

The endorsement followed last weekend private consultative visit by Hon. Ogunniyi, representing Ojomu/Balogun Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, to the elder statesman at his residence in Lagos.

Opadokun, a revered legal mind, author, and indigenous son of Offa, played historic role in resisting the military junta and the struggle for democracy after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

Speaking at the consultative session, the octogenarian commended Ogunniyi for his steadfast grassroots commitment, legislative maturity, and devotion to progressive governance in Kwara State.

Opadokun noted that “the sustained progress of Offa, Kwara South, and the entire state relies on entrusting leadership to capable, principled, and tested young leaders who embody integrity and selfless public service.”

Offering his patriarchal blessing to the joint SYD-ADATO ticket under the APC, the NADECO chieftain urged Ogunniyi to remain an uncompromising champion of equity, rule of law, and people-first democratic values when elected into executive office.

Ogunniyi, however, described the endorsement as a deeply humbling and historic milestone in his political journey.

“Sitting at the feet of a living legend of Nigeria’s democratic struggle, Pa Ayo Opadokun, is an invaluable masterclass in sacrifice and principle.

“For decades, Pa Opadokun stood on the frontline when courage was costly, defending our democracy and elevating the name of Offa on the national stage.

“To receive his blessings, counsel, and unconditional backing for our deputy governorship bid is both a profound honour and a sacred trust. It reinforces our resolve to uphold the highest standards of progressive leadership and ensure that Offa takes its rightful place in driving the sustainable development of our dear state,” he said.

Political commentators regard Opadokun’s endorsement as an immense moral and political validation of the SYD-ADATO ticket. Coming hot on the heels of the backing by prominent Offa business magnates and legal luminaries earlier in the week, this latest validation further cements Hon. Ogunniyi’s home-base consensus, positioning him as the unifying figure across political, economic, and generational divides in Kwara South.