Renowned Ibadan political strategist and former New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) chieftain, Alhaji Adebisi Olopoeeyan, has publicly urged Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, the former NNPP governorship candidate in Ogun State, to shift his political base to Oyo State—his ancestral homeland.
Olopoeeyan made the appeal on Tuesday while receiving Ambassador Ajadi on a courtesy visit to his residence in Idi-Ape/Basorun area of Ibadan. The seasoned political figure revealed that he had long encouraged Ajadi, who hails from Oja’gbo in Ibadan North-East Local Government, to contribute to the growth and development of Oyo State, where his father originated.
“I’ve advised him repeatedly to come home and join us in building Oyo State,” Olopoeeyan stated. “He has made significant contributions in Ogun State, particularly through his philanthropic efforts in Yewaland, his maternal roots. Now, it’s time he comes to serve his fatherland.”
Although Olopoeeyan confirmed his recent defection from the NNPP to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he noted that Ajadi’s political future would be determined by his personal convictions.
“He has been a loyal and dependable ally, both politically and personally,” Olopoeeyan continued. “I hope he will follow me into the PDP, but I respect his independence. What matters most is that he brings his energy, vision, and commitment to the people of Ibadan and Oyo State at large.”
Ajadi, while addressing journalists after a private meeting with Olopoeeyan, expressed openness to the call, stating that he remains committed to serving the masses wherever the need arises.
“Politics, to me, is all about service to the people,” Ajadi declared. “Whether it’s Ogun or Oyo, the goal is the same—lifting people from obscurity to opportunity. That’s what I’ve always stood for. Alhaji Olopoeeyan has been a father figure and political mentor. His consistent appeal for me to return home politically is not lost on me. I am from Ibadan by paternal heritage, and I understand the responsibility that comes with that.”
He explained that he had honored Olopoeeyan’s repeated invitations to visit Ibadan and expressed surprise that the conversation during the visit revolved heavily around shifting his political engagement to Oyo State.
“I am an Ibadan indigene by birth and blood,” Ajadi added. “Though my mother is from Ilaro in Ogun State, my father is a well-known son of the soil here in Ibadan. As we say, ‘a bird cannot fly with one wing.’ I must balance my commitment to both sides of my heritage. It’s not just about political alignment, it’s about impact and service.”
Ajadi said he would continue to consult widely before making a final decision, but assured that his desire to uplift people remains unwavering.
Olopoeeyan, who is expected to formally announce his defection to the PDP in an upcoming public ceremony, concluded by expressing optimism that Ajadi’s eventual involvement in Oyo politics would bring added value and renewed energy to grassroots development.
