By Ismail Olawale.
The recent announcement by Elder Leke Abejide to offer himself as the Campaign Director General for Governor Ododo in 2027 has sparked widespread criticism from the youths in Yagba federal constituency.
Under the auspices of the Yagba Youths Movement for Good Governance, the youths expressed disappointment and skepticism over Abejide’s decision, questioning his motives and strategy.
Abejide’s sudden U-turn on his earlier stance has raised eyebrows. Initially, he claimed he wasn’t interested in discussing his own election in 2027. However, he self-appointed himself as Governor Ododo’s campaign chief, leaving many wondering what prompted this sudden change of heart.
The Yagba youths are concerned about Abejide’s ability to lead a successful campaign, given his past performance.
“In the last election, he came in a distant fourth, which doesn’t inspire confidence in his strategic prowess. It’s natural to wonder what makes him think he can succeed where he has previously failed,” said Abegunde Femi, spokesperson of the group, in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Furthermore, the youths worry that Abejide’s actions may be driven by self-interest rather than a genuine desire to support Ododo’s campaign.
The statement read:
“By offering himself as campaign director, Abejide may be trying to cling to political relevance rather than prioritizing the needs of the people.
“Governor Ododo deserves better than a ‘drowning politician’ that is desperate for survival. Ododo needs a team providing fresh perspectives, innovative strategies, and a genuine commitment to serving the people. Abejide’s failed strategy and questionable motives make him unsuitable for the role.
“Abejide’s decision may be seen as a desperate attempt to revive his dwindling political career. The people of Yagba and the entire state deserve better than a politician interested in self-preservation rather than serving the people.
“Our rejection of Elder Leke Abejide’s offer sends a clear message: the people will no longer tolerate self-serving politicians. It’s time for Abejide to reevaluate his priorities and consider what’s best for the people, rather than his own ambitions. The people of Yagba and the entire state deserve better leadership.
“The rejection of Abejide’s offer is a step towards ensuring that the people’s interests are prioritized. It’s essential to hold politicians accountable for their actions and ensure they work towards the betterment of society, rather than personal gain.
“Leke is now alone, having lost his social and political assets that he could have used to negotiate a better position in the APC. Unfortunately, those political assets like Commodore Folusho Daniels, Hon. TJ Faniyi, Hon. Salaudeen Ganiyu, Hon. Henry Ojuola, but to mention a few, have already joined the APC.
“Elder Leke’s only option is to swallow his pride and self appoint himself as the Campaign Director General for Ododo which we consider a ridiculous offer.”