The National President of the APC Youth League and Convener of the Yayi Youth Vanguard, Comrade Olamide Lawal, has rejected claims that former lawmaker Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu could threaten the dominance of the ruling APC, ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State.

Lawal said that Adebutu’s political standing poses no serious concern to the party’s prospects in the state.

Speaking during a television interview yesterday, Lawal dismissed the political influence of Ladi Adebutu, arguing that the PDP chieftain lacks both the political capacity and governance record needed to pose a serious challenge to the APC in Ogun State.

According to Lawal, Adebutu’s political career does not provide sufficient evidence of notable achievements or impactful representation.

“Ladi Adebutu is not a threat. His experience is limited to representing his constituency in the House of Representatives, and there is little to show in terms of significant accomplishments or lasting impact,” he said.

Lawal, who serves as Special Assistant to the Ogun State Governor on Youth Development, further contended that the state’s zoning arrangement works against any immediate governorship ambition by Adebutu.

He explained that Governor Dapo Abiodun and Adebutu both hail from Iperu in Ikenne Local Government Area, making it politically unlikely for another indigene of the same town to succeed the current governor.

“With an Iperu indigene presently serving as governor, it would be difficult for another person from the same town to emerge as his successor,” Lawal stated.

He maintained that the APC continues to enjoy widespread support across Ogun State due to its leadership quality and record of governance.

Lawal also commended Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, describing him as a leader whose tenure has been defined by impactful constituency projects, effective lawmaking, and people-focused programmes.

He noted that Senator Adeola has empowered thousands of youths and women through vocational training initiatives, distribution of working tools, and financial assistance schemes.

Lawal added that the senator has demonstrated a strong commitment to education through scholarship programmes, provision of educational materials, and the renovation of public schools.

He further highlighted Adeola’s role in facilitating critical infrastructure projects, including the construction and rehabilitation of roads, establishment of primary healthcare centres, and expansion of access to clean water in communities across Ogun State.

Expressing confidence in the APC’s prospects, Lawal said the party remains united and well-positioned to retain its dominance in the state, citing both its performance record and prevailing political realities.

“With leaders such as Senator Adeola delivering tangible benefits to the people and considering the existing zoning dynamics, the APC remains focused and capable of sustaining democratic dividends for Ogun residents,” he said.

Lawal concluded by noting that voters in Ogun State are increasingly evaluating political leaders based on their achievements rather than campaign rhetoric.

“Ogun politics has evolved beyond empty promises. The electorate now judges leaders by their performance and visible contributions to society,” he added.