The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the August 16 bye-election in Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle, fondly known as DoN, has officially launched his stakeholder engagement tour, beginning with strategic consultations in Wards 1 to 3.

The grassroots-focused consultations mark the beginning of an extensive campaign designed to connect with community leaders, opinion shapers, and voters across the federal constituency.

Hon. Oyekunle was accompanied by a formidable delegation of party stalwarts, government officials, and campaign committee members. Among those on the consultation train were the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Seun Olufade; Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Yinka Kazeem (Bibire); Director-General of the PDP Campaign Committee, Hon. Demola Omotosho; the Lawmaker Representing Ibadan North Constituency 1 at the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Olufunke Comforter; Special Assistant to the Governor on Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hon. Julian Nwachukwu; Secretary of the Campaign Committee, Hon. Adebowale Falana; Vice Chairman of the Campaign Committee, Hon. Akeem Ayoade; Chief of Staff to the Ibadan North Local Government Chairman, Hon. Hamdy Mustapha; PDP Ibadan North Local Government Chairman, Hon. Mustapha Comrade; and the State PDP Publicity Secretary and Youth Leader, Hon. Michael Ogunsina. Also in attendance were local government PDP executives, ward leaders, and community mobilizers.

During the first leg of the tour, which kicked off in Wards 1 to 3, Hon. Oyekunle engaged with a wide range of stakeholder groups including traditional rulers, religious leaders, community development associations, youth organizations, market women, and artisans—gathering insight into their concerns and aspirations.

“This process is about building trust,” Hon. Oyekunle stated during a town hall-style interaction. “I want the people of Ibadan North to know that I am accessible, accountable, and fully committed to representing their interests at the National Assembly. By starting with Wards 1 to 3, we are laying a solid foundation for a people-driven campaign.”

Addressing the stakeholders, Hon. Olufunke Comforter called for full and united support for the PDP flagbearer, noting that his emergence signals a major turning point for the constituency.

“Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle represents a fresh opportunity for growth, relief, and purposeful federal representation. He understands our needs, he connects with the grassroots, and I have no doubt that his emergence will attract real development to Ibadan North,” she said.

Executive Chairman Hon. Seun Olufade praised the enthusiastic reception received by the PDP team and described the candidate as a beacon of hope for the federal constituency.

“We are confident in Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle’s capacity to deliver effective representation. His grassroots consultation proves he’s ready to serve with humility, competence, and vision,” Olufade stated.

Echoing the sentiment, Hon. Yinka Kazeem (Bibire) and Hon. Julian Nwachukwu reaffirmed the state government’s support for the PDP candidate, emphasizing Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to people-centered and responsive representation for Ibadan North at the federal level.

Campaign DG Hon. Demola Omotosho described the ward-by-ward outreach as “a model of grassroots politics that strengthens democracy and deepens party loyalty.”

Hon. Adebowale Falana, Hon. Akeem Ayoade, and Hon. Hamdy Mustapha also expressed their satisfaction with the overwhelming community response, noting that the PDP’s approach reflects a renewed sense of direction and inclusivity in Ibadan North politics.

Speaking to the press, Hon. Mustapha Comrade commended the unity within the party and declared that the PDP was well-positioned to reclaim the federal constituency through the strength of its candidate and the backing of the people.

Hon. Michael Ogunsina, the PDP State Publicity Secretary and Youth Leader, praised the youth energy driving the campaign and urged young voters in Ibadan North to rally behind DoN for a future-focused and progressive representation at the federal level.

The consultations are expected to continue across all 12 wards in the constituency in the coming days, as Hon. Oyekunle amplifies his message of responsive, youth-driven, and people-first leadership.

With growing momentum, broad-based community support, and strategic alignment across all party structures, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle is fast emerging as the candidate to beat in the forthcoming bye-election.

The upcoming August 16 bye-election in Ibadan North Federal Constituency presents a critical opportunity for the people to choose not just a representative, but a leader with vision, capacity, and integrity. This election comes in the wake of the unfortunate passing of the former House of Representatives member for Ibadan North. We honour his legacy and pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.

Amid this vacuum, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle, fondly known as DON, under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has emerged as the most qualified, prepared, and people-oriented candidate to step into this role.

While the APC remains entangled in internal crises over ticket decisions, the PDP, under the leadership of the Oyo State Governor—has demonstrated timely and respectful commitment to honouring the legacy of the late lawmaker by presenting Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (DON) as its candidate. DON’s candidacy reflects not just political ambition, but a pledge of continuity, compassion, and dedicated service to the people of Ibadan North

10 Things to Know About Hon. Fola Oyekunle DON

Grassroots Connection

A proud son of Jagun Village, Olorunda, in Lagelu LGA, DON remains deeply rooted in the lives and struggles of ordinary people.

Solid Academic Background

Studied at the Federal College of Agriculture, Moore Ibadan, laying the foundation for his successful ventures in agribusiness.

Entrepreneur and Employer

A thriving entrepreneur in agriculture, real estate, and entertainment, DON has provided jobs for over 150 people in Ibadan.

Legislative Experience

As a former Member of the Oyo State House of Assembly representing Ibadan North, DON has proven legislative competence and a track record of community-focused advocacy.

Youth & Sports Advocate

Chaired key youth-focused initiatives, including the Lekan Salami Stadium upgrade and state-wide youth development programs.

Governance at the Top

Served as Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde, contributing to meaningful statewide reforms and strategic governance.

Community Builder

Through the Fola Oyekunle Foundations, he has impacted lives through scholarships, healthcare support, widows’ aid, and empowerment schemes.

Peace Advocate

DON was appointed a UN Eminent Peace Ambassador for his work in peacebuilding and conflict resolution, locally and internationally.

Results-Driven Leader

Known for delivering on promises, championing policies and actions that uplift entire communities.

The People’s Choice

Respected for being compassionate, competent, and committed to honest, effective national representation.

Why Ibadan North Should Elect Hon. DON

He understands governance

A former Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, he brings strategic experience to the national level.

He knows legislative work

A former State Assembly member, he’s no stranger to lawmaking and public advocacy.

He has deep roots in Ibadan North, and a genuine heart for service—not just politics.

He stands out for his clarity of thought, creative solutions, and commitment to the public good.

He represents a unifying force, honouring the memory of the late lawmaker, even across party lines, with humility and purpose.

On August 16, let us rally around competence, compassion, and credibility.

Let us vote Fola Oyekunle DON to represent Ibadan North Federal Constituency.

Let us strengthen the PDP’s legacy of people-first governance.

Let us elect a man with a track record we can trust.

Vote PDP. Vote HON. DON.

By Amb. Paul Adebanjo
Musicologist|Journalist|PR|Public Analysts
pobymusicconcept@gmail.com

As the August 16 bye-election to fill the vacant Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat approaches, the All Progressives Congress (APC) appears to be grappling with internal turmoil and waning morale, following a leaked memo from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) which cast doubt on the legitimacy of its primary election.

The by-election, prompted by the passing of Hon. Musiliu Akinremi Olaide “Jagaban”, has seen the APC’s political machinery in Ibadan North struggle with disunity, unresolved grievances, and what many members now consider a lost cause. The situation was exacerbated by the release of an internal INEC memo which officially confirmed that the APC’s scheduled primary election for the constituency did not take place.

The memo, dated July 21, 2025, and signed by the Acting Administrative Secretary of INEC’s Oyo State office, Rosemary Alaba Adeniyi, addressed to the Director of Election and Party Monitoring at INEC Headquarters, stated unequivocally that the APC primary scheduled for July 19 did not hold. Another communication, issued by Kehinde Omisile, Acting Head of the Election and Party Monitoring Department, also confirmed that efforts by INEC officials to observe the exercise proved abortive.
Party stakeholders and members have reacted strongly to the revelation. Many view the failure of the party to conduct a transparent and credible primary election as a serious blow to its credibility and chances at the polls. The selection of Hon. Wale Murphy as the party’s candidate has been met with stiff resistance from fellow aspirants and their supporters, who allege imposition and manipulation.

Nine aspirants who contested the ticket alongside Murphy have reportedly resolved not to support his candidacy, with many openly declaring their intention to focus instead on preparations for the 2027 general elections. “We have accepted that the bye-election is lost. It’s more important now to rebuild the party from within and come back stronger in 2027,” said a source close to one of the aggrieved aspirants.

The internal divisions are not limited to aspirants alone. Several grassroots members and party loyalists in Ibadan North have also distanced themselves from the campaign, citing dissatisfaction with the process that produced the candidate. Some have vowed to remain neutral, while others have declared their non-participation in any campaign activities.

The leaked INEC memo is being described as the final nail in the coffin for APC’s bye-election campaign, as it publicly confirms what many insiders had whispered — that the party failed to conduct the process according to due procedure.

Observers note that the APC now faces the dual task of managing electoral loss and healing deep-rooted internal wounds. For many members, the focus has already shifted to reconciling factions and reorganizing the party structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.

As the political climate in Ibadan North intensifies, the party’s ability to resolve these issues may determine its long-term relevance and electoral success in the state.

The Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, has assured that he will support the University of Ibadan to remain the first and the best university in Nigeria and to reclaim its glory globally.

He gave this assurance while receiving the management team of the university led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The team was there to decorate him as UI@75 Ambassador Plenipotentiary.

The Vice President acknowledged that UI is the greatest citadel of learning in Nigeria and West Africa. He recalled, in his days as a postgraduate student in UI, the university had students from all over Africa who came to obtain UI degrees, adding that the university has produced many icons.

He reiterated the Federal Government’s unfaltering decision to reposition Nigeria’s education sector, affirming that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, will mobilise both public and private sector support to reposition higher institutions of learning, particularly the University of Ibadan, being Nigeria’s premier university.

He expressed profound delight at the honour bestowed on him by the university, stating that he will gladly display the plaque in his office as a warm reminder of his staunch affiliation to the university.

The Vice Chancellor had earlier disclosed that he led the special team from the university to perform the significant task which commemorates the 75th anniversary of the University of Ibadan, restating that the university was established in 1948 and had turned 75 years on 17 November, 2023.

Professor Adebowale explained that the University through its UI@75 Committee decided to mark the landmark anniversary by carefully selecting notable Alumni of the University who have made invaluable impact and contributed significantly to the advancement of the cause of humanity.

He stated that the University had earlier designated many alumni as UI@75 Ambassadors while notable friends and eminent personalities who are not Alumni of the University were designated as UI@75 Ambassadors Extraordinaire.

He disclosed that the Vice President is the only alumnus of the university designated as
UI@75 Ambassador Plenipotentiary, the highest alumnus honour conferred.

The Registrar, Mr. Ganiyu O. Saliu, decorated the Vice President, on behalf of Council, Senate, Staff, and Students of the University, and presented a plaque to the honouree.

On the Vice Chancellor’s entourage were the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Professor Peter O. Olapegba, FNPA, fspsp; the Registrar, Mr Ganiyu O. Saliu, fspsp; Director of the Office of Alumni Relations, Professor Olakunbi Olasope; a Faculty member, Dr Babatunde Blavo; Mr Oladayo Olajide, and Mr Adeniyi Adebayo of the UI Directorate of Public Communication.

Market leaders across Ibadan North Local Government have thrown their weight behind the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle, popularly known as DON, ahead of the August 16 House of Representatives bye-election.

The endorsement came during a crucial meeting convened in Ibadan North Local Government.

The gathering brought together leaders of 17 major market groups across the local government area, united in their resolve to support the PDP flagbearer.

Speaking at the meeting, the Babaloja of Bodija Market, Alhaji S.A. Jimoh, stated unequivocally that the market community in Bodija stands firmly behind anything associated with Governor Seyi Makinde.

“Our unshakable support for Hon. Folajimi DON is a direct reflection of our admiration and trust in the leadership of Governor Makinde,” he said.

Alhaji Jimoh also expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde for fulfilling his promise to the market by donating a brand-new 18-seater bus to the Foodstuff Sellers Association, Bodija Branch.

He commended the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, whom he described as a respectful, humble, and visionary leader.

According to him, “Hon. Olufade’s administration has brought uncommon development to our markets and the entire local government.”

The Babaloja of Ibadan North, Alhaji Muniru Bolaji, also praised Governor Makinde for his exceptional leadership and for surrounding himself with capable individuals.

He declared full support for Hon. Folajimi DON, noting that, “Whoever the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, is backing, we are backing as well because he has proven to be a man of integrity.”

The Iyaloja of Ibadan North Local Government, Chief (Mrs.) Borode Omotayo, emphasized that the market leaders, speaking with one voice, have adopted Hon. Folajimi DON as their candidate and pledged to deliver victory for the PDP come August 16.

In his response, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle expressed profound gratitude to the market men and women for their overwhelming support.

He thanked them for standing with Governor Makinde and Hon. Olufade and promised to offer qualitative and inclusive representation if elected.

“I will always be available to support you and will never take your support for granted,” he assured.

The Executive Chairman of Akinyele Local Government, Hon. Wole Akinleye, who made an unplanned appearance at the meeting, commended the market leaders for their steadfast support for Governor Makinde and the PDP.

He assured them that Hon. Folajimi DON would not disappoint.

In his remarks, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, appreciated the market leaders for their unwavering support.

He promised to sustain his people-centered approach to governance and maintain a strong partnership with the markets in Ibadan North.

Notable market leaders present at the meeting included:Alhaji Chief Muniru Bolaji (Babaloja, Ibadan North)Chief (Mrs.) Borode Omotayo (Iyaloja, Ibadan North) Alhaji S.A. Jimoh (Babaloja, Bodija Market)Alhaja Chief Sikirat Adebayo Tantoloun (Iyaloja, Bodija)Alhaji Dauda Adegbenro (Chairman, Bodija Market)Iyaloja of Sango Market.

A host of other market leaders from across Ibadan North Local Government were also in attendance.

Markets represented included: Mokola, Ifelodun Bodija, Isokan Bodija, Irepodun Bodija, Vegetable Bodija, Binukonu Bodija, Ode Oolo, 30-30 Bodija, Betterlife Bodija (Iso Pako), Sango Ojurin, Sango Garage, Kara Ojurin Bodija, Oke Itunu, Gbaremu, General Bodija, Ilupeju Bodija, and Ijokodo.

As the bye-election draws near, this strong show of support from the economic backbone of Ibadan North adds significant momentum to Hon. Folajimi DON’s candidacy under the PDP banner.

Traditional rulers in Ibadan North Local Government Area have declared their full support for Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle, popularly known as DoN, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the forthcoming House of Representatives bye-election scheduled for August 16, 2025.

The endorsement came during a strategic meeting held at the Ibadan North Local Government Secretariat, Agodi Gate, where key traditional leaders — including Baales and Mogajis from various wards and communities — converged to deliberate on the future of political representation in the constituency.

The gathering was presided over by the Eekefa Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Raufu Eleruwere, who described Oyekunle as a “true son of Ibadan” with the character, vision, and community ties to effectively represent Ibadan North at the federal level.

“This is beyond politics,” High Chief Eleruwere said. “We are endorsing a man who is not only competent but deeply rooted in our community. He understands our values and has maintained strong ties with our people. We must unite behind him.”

Hon. Oyekunle, accompanied by the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Olufade Oluwaseun, used the visit to seek blessings and strengthen ties with the traditional institution.

Addressing the royal fathers, Oyekunle expressed profound gratitude for their longstanding support, pledging to prioritize regular consultation and uphold the dignity of traditional rulers if elected.

“I am not a stranger to Ibadan North. This is my home, and you are my people,” he said. “If given the mandate, I will ensure that the voices of our traditional institutions are heard and respected at the national level.”

Executive Chairman Hon. Olufade commended the traditional rulers for their cooperation with his administration and emphasized the importance of preserving the synergy between modern governance and cultural heritage.

“You have helped us maintain peace and unity in our communities,” he said. “Hon. Oyekunle has shown competence, humility, and genuine concern for the people — he is the right choice for Ibadan North.”

Elder statesman and PDP chieftain, Alhaji Ismaila Ashipa, also lent his voice to the endorsement, describing Oyekunle as a *true Omoluabi* who embodies the virtues of discipline, humility, and service.

“Hon. Oyekunle is not just contesting; he is carrying the aspirations of Ibadan North,” Ashipa stated. “His emergence is a blessing, and I urge all sons and daughters of our land to stand firmly with him.”

The meeting concluded with prayers and traditional rites for Oyekunle’s success. Several chiefs and community leaders pledged their unwavering support, calling for unity across the constituency to elect a candidate who truly understands the grassroots and can deliver democratic dividends.