The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate for Abeokuta South State Constituency II, Adeoye Adewale Adeniran, has said the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State should not be decided by political popularity or financial influence, but by credibility, honesty, competence and commitment to public service.

Adeoye made the call at the weekend while addressing PDP members in Ward 14, Onikolobo, urging voters to look beyond billboards, rallies and vote-buying.

He asserted that Ogun residents must examine the character and track record of those seeking to lead the state, referencing recent concerns raised by the party’s senatorial candidate for Ogun Central, Iyabo Obasanjo.

Recall that Obasanjo had questioned the integrity of APC governorship candidate, Solomon Adeola, aka Yayi.

Adeoye said the assertion that Adeola “lacks integrity” and “breaks trust” should not be dismissed as ordinary political rhetoric but treated as a serious concern raised by someone who had first-hand political dealings with him.

He also argued that the allegations should be viewed alongside the controversies surrounding the 2026 Federal Budget, where several civil society organisations, policy analysts and opposition voices questioned alleged budget padding, off-mandate projects, duplication of allocations and constituency projects inserted into agencies outside their statutory responsibilities.

“The people of Ogun must pay close attention when an experienced public servant like Senator Iyabo Obasanjo raises concerns about character and integrity. These are not issues that should be dismissed with kid gloves or viewed as mere campaign exchanges.

” Leadership begins with character and integrity remains the foundation upon which public trust is built,” Adeoye stated.

The PDP candidate linked the debate to national governance, citing public concerns over the 2026 Federal Budget and the role of the Senate Committee on Appropriations.

“As chairman of that committee, Senator Adeola occupied a position that determines how Nigerians’ money is spent. Anytime questions are raised about transparency in budgeting, citizens deserve clear answers,” he stated.

Adeoye argued that elections determined by money and popularity have produced leaders who fail to deliver, saying “We cannot continue to recycle people who are causing our pains. Ogun people deserve leaders whose promises can be trusted and whose records show consistency.”

He argued that the party’s governorship candidate, Oladipupo Adebutu, is as an example of service-driven leadership, citing his humanitarian interventions and community development projects across Ogun as verifiable proof of commitment.

Adeoye however, pledged to champion legislation that prioritizes the people, urging voters across Abeokuta South and the entire state to resist vote-selling.

“Money given today will cost us dearly tomorrow. 2027 must be about competence, honesty and service. Character is not negotiable if we want a better Ogun,” he added.