The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State for the 2027 election, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, has broken his silence over the omission of his name from the list of governorship candidates published by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), insisting that he remains a duly registered member of the party.

Adebutu, in a statement addressed to the people of Ogun State, said he completed his digital membership registration within the stipulated period, adding that his membership card was printed and verified before his documentation was submitted to INEC within the prescribed time.

He maintained that he had neither left the PDP nor abandoned his commitment to the party, expressing confidence that the circumstances surrounding the omission would be resolved through the appropriate channels.

Adebutu also defended the process that produced him as the PDP flag bearer, stating that INEC officials were present as observers during the party’s governorship primary.

According to him, the relevant documents were presented for verification, certification and confirmation, which he described as important facts that should be considered in resolving the matter.

Adebutu further alleged that the Ogun State PDP had expressed concern over what it described as undue pressure allegedly mounted by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on INEC.

He questioned why his name was missing from the published governorship candidates’ list when, according to him, the names of the PDP’s candidates for the State House of Assembly, House of Representatives and Senate positions had been included.

Adebutu also recalled what he described as previous attempts to frustrate his party’s political activities, including restrictions on campaign billboards, attacks at campaign grounds and harassment of members.

Despite these challenges, he said the party remained peaceful and committed to democratic participation, urging supporters and residents of the state to remain calm while efforts were made to address the omission.

He insisted that the development would not deter his ambition to provide what he described as responsive leadership and relief for the people of Ogun State.

“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 political slogan, “OGUN FOR OGUN,” Adebutu said his commitment to the welfare and development of the state remained unchanged, adding that the party would continue its pursuit of a better Ogun State.