Ogun 2027: ‘Politics of Nativity’ Could Distract From Policy Debate

A political debate over indigeneity has emerged ahead of the 2027 Ogun State governorship election, with columnist Olakunle Abimbola criticising what he describes as the growing use of “nativist” arguments in the campaign.

In his The Nation column, Abimbola said supporters of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate Ladi Adebutu, particularly Folake Marcus-Bello, had questioned the eligibility of All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, on grounds of his origins.

The columnist argued that such arguments could divert attention from substantive discussions about policies, programmes and governance.

Abimbola noted that both Adebutu and Marcus-Bello have established political and professional records, and questioned why the campaign should focus heavily on questions of nativity rather than competing policy proposals.

He also recalled previous instances in Ogun and neighbouring states where politicians faced questions over their origins.

The column cited former Ogun governors Olusegun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel, who, according to Abimbola, faced claims or insinuations questioning their local roots during their political careers.

Abimbola also referenced former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola, who was described by opponents as a “Lagos import” during the 2007 election, and former Lagos Governor Lateef Jakande, who similarly faced questions about his origins.

According to the columnist, such historical examples demonstrate how arguments over indigeneity have repeatedly featured in Nigerian electoral politics.

He maintained that the Ogun electorate would benefit more from a campaign focused on concrete policy proposals, development plans and competing ideas for the state.

Abimbola therefore urged the PDP camp and other political actors to shift the conversation from questions of nativity to substantive policy issues ahead of the 2027 election.