ISÈSE COMMUNITY IN OGUN RALLIES FOR YAYI — PROMISED SUPPORT, BACKED UP, DEMANDS FOR FAIRNESS

Dateline: Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State — April 21, 2026
In a culturally symbolic and politically charged gathering, adherents of Isẹ̀ṣe from across Ijebuland converged at Ambali Hall, WoSam Center in Ago-Iwoye to declare their support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate, Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as YAYI.

Hosted by Hon. Ayodele Kaka, the Ogun State House of Assembly representative for Ago-Iwoye Constituency II, the event drew a diverse mix of traditional worshippers, community leaders, youth mobilizers, and political stakeholders. Beyond its celebratory outlook, the gathering carried a deeper undertone—an endorsement anchored not on blind loyalty, but on clear expectations of fairness, recognition, and inclusion.

“We Exist, We Matter” — Assertion of Traditional Identity and Rights
A defining moment of the event came with the address by Chief Dr. Idowu Salami, a prominent voice within the Isẹ̀ṣe community. Speaking with conviction, he highlighted what he described as systemic neglect and marginalization of traditional worshippers across Ogun State.

“Our traditions are not illegal, and our beliefs are not inferior,” he stated. “We are part of this society and card-carrying members of political parties. What we demand is simple—recognition, respect, and inclusion.”

He emphasized that the community’s support for Olamilekan Adeola is conditional on performance and sincerity. “We believe he has the capacity to lead, but we will not hesitate to hold him accountable. This is a partnership, not submission.”

Stakeholders Speak — Broad-Based Endorsement with Caution
Other respected figures within the traditional institution also lent their voices, reinforcing both support and expectations.

Chief G.O. Akanbi, Alagba Gbogbo Ijebu-Igbo, described the gathering as historic:
“This is the first time we are seeing this level of unity among Isẹ̀ṣe people in Ogun for a political purpose. Our support is deliberate—we expect policies that will protect our heritage and give us rightful recognition.”

Chief J.K. Osijirin, Chief Awuse Gbogbo Ijebu, stressed the importance of cultural preservation:
“Development must not come at the expense of tradition. Any government we support must strike a balance between modernization and respect for our ancestral values.”

Mrs. B.O. Hassan, Olotu Erelu Akile Ijebu, highlighted the role of women in the movement:
“Isẹ̀ṣe women are not silent. We mobilize, we vote, and we influence communities. We are supporting YAYI, but we expect to be seen and heard in governance.”

Mrs. Lateef Shakirat, Olotu Erelu Ejire, echoed similar sentiments:
“Inclusion must be practical, not symbolic. We want representation in decision-making spaces, not just during elections.”

Mrs. Bisi Falako, Olotu Erelu Ogbere, added a grassroots perspective:
“At the local level, discrimination still exists. This endorsement is also a message—we are watching, and we expect change.”

High Chief Adebayo Adedejo, the Okanlomo of Ago-Iwoye, emphasized unity and accountability:
“Our endorsement today is strong, but it is not unconditional. Leadership must be responsive to all, including traditional institutions that have sustained our communities for generations.”

Political Mobilization and Strategic Messaging
The gathering also served as a strategic mobilization platform for APC stakeholders. Hon. Temitope Akintunde Armstrong, a key youth figure within the party, delivered a message centered on unity, continuity, and confidence in the party’s candidate.

Describing Olamilekan Adeola as a tested and experienced public servant, Armstrong noted that his track record in legislative governance positions him as a credible choice for Ogun’s top office.

“YAYI understands governance, especially from the grassroots. What is required now is consolidation of support and collective commitment to victory,” he said.

He also appealed for continued support in his bid to return to the Ogun State House of Assembly, positioning himself as a bridge between the people and government, particularly for underrepresented communities like the Isẹ̀ṣe adherents.

Hon. Kaka’s Leadership Role: Bridging Community and Power
As chief host, Hon. Ayodele Kaka played a central role in shaping both the tone and direction of the event. His remarks reflected a blend of political pragmatism and cultural allegiance.

“This is beyond politics—it is about identity, dignity, and justice for our people,” Kaka stated. “I have walked with this community, I understand your struggles, and I am committed to ensuring your voices are heard at the highest levels.”

He reaffirmed his commitment to serving as a conduit between the Isẹ̀ṣe community and the political establishment, assuring attendees that their demands would not be ignored.

Kaka described the endorsement of Olamilekan Adeola as “strategic and forward-looking,” while emphasizing that leadership must remain accountable to all segments of society.

More Than Endorsement — A Movement for Inclusion
Far from being a routine political endorsement, the event evolved into a broader declaration of identity and civic participation. The Isẹ̀ṣe community projected itself as organized, politically conscious, and unwilling to remain on the margins of governance.

Cultural displays, chants of solidarity, and symbolic expressions of heritage reinforced a unified message: inclusion in Ogun State’s socio-political structure is no longer negotiable.
As echoed across the hall:
“We are no longer on the sidelines. We are part of the conversation.”

The Road Ahead
The Ago-Iwoye convergence signals a growing political awakening among traditional worshippers—one that could influence voter alignment ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race.

For Olamilekan Adeola, the endorsement represents both an opportunity and a test: the chance to consolidate a broad-based support coalition, and the responsibility to deliver inclusive governance that reflects the diversity of Ogun State.

As the political climate continues to evolve, one message from the Isẹ̀ṣe community stands firm—support has been given, but this time, it comes with vigilance, expectation, and a firm demand for equitable representation.

Report by: Obafemi Mebude (Editor-in-Chief/CEO), Stephen Ogar, and Damilare Ibileye for StreetVoice (sub Igboro Lawa)