The race to succeed Governor Dapo Abiodun within the All Progressives Congress (APC) is becoming increasingly interesting and tense. The former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole is in interested in the race.
Findings by
City People indicate that a significant portion of APC supporters in Ogun State
is rallying behind his ambition. The notion of having a successor who shares a
vision is vital for maintaining a legacy, and Bankole’s alignment with
Abiodun’s goals is a crucial factor in garnering support from party loyalists
and those seeking continuity.
A prominent
APC member in Abeokuta mentioned that Bankole has been nurturing his political
ambition for many years, which is why he was encouraged to join the APC over
four years ago. He has demonstrated steadfast loyalty to the party, sharing
many ideals with the incumbent governor. “In fact, he has maintained close
relationships with key players in Ogun State politics. His close proximity to
former Governor Olusegun Osoba is both strategic and intentional,” the member
stated.
He further
highlighted Osoba’s fondness for Bankole. Additionally, in the recent
presidential election, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sought support from
Ogun State, Bankole and a select group stood firmly behind the President, even
securing a 100 million naira presidential form before eventually stepping down
for Tinubu. These strategic moves over the past few years illustrate his role
as a serious contender.
As a
seasoned politician and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt.
Hon. Dimeji Bankole’s potential candidacy is attracting considerable interest.
During his tenure as Speaker, he was instrumental in facilitating direct
employment opportunities for individuals in his constituency, demonstrating his
capacity to deliver tangible benefits.
Bankole’s
roots are in Iporo Sodeke, Abeokuta South, and Iporo Irogun, Odeda local
government area in Ogun State. His potential candidacy resonates strongly with
those who desire an indigene of Ogun to lead the state. His experience in
governance and leadership positions him as a formidable candidate.
The 2027
governorship election will be pivotal, and Bankole’s participation could offer
a unique perspective. Given his track record, he has the potential to unify
support from various regions and parties.
It is
essential for stakeholders in Ogun West to build consensus around a strong
candidate capable of addressing the long-standing marginalization of the zone.
This prolonged marginalization has been attributed to the failure of aspirants
to present a united front. Stakeholders should intensify efforts towards
collective action and broader alliances. Consensus building is vital to prevent
internal disunity.
His father,
Chief Alani Bankole, is a prominent businessman and the Apena of Egbaland. He
previously served as the acting National Vice Chairman and later as the Acting
National Chairman of the defunct All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP)—one of the
parties that merged to form the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Chief
Bankole has run multiple times as a gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State.
Much of the
discussion surrounding Dimeji Bankole’s political future highlights that his
past political experiences and family legacy make him an appealing candidate.
As a former Speaker and past gubernatorial candidate, he possesses the
structure, network, and goodwill necessary to be a favored choice, according to
insiders.
City People
has discovered that Rt Hon Dimeji Bankole has begun widespread consultations.
He has been meeting with influential APC leaders in the state who can also
advocate for his ambition to the president.
In Ogun
State, several factors must be considered by any politician seeking the top
position. Religious considerations are significant, as political parties seem
to prefer a Muslim governorship candidate paired with a Christian deputy to
ensure balance, especially since the current governor is a Christian. Analysts
suggest that this strategy helps maintain a delicate equilibrium of religious
interests within the state’s leadership.
The
influence of the Presidency can also play a crucial role, potentially swaying
support toward candidates who align with the center’s political interests.
Additionally, the impact of the incumbent governor and political heavyweights,
such as former governors Olusegun Osoba (Ogun Central), Gbenga Daniel (Ogun
East), and Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun Central), should not be overlooked. Their
endorsements and behind-the-scenes efforts will likely shape alliances and
ultimately determine the race’s outcome.
Dimeji
Bankole officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in March 2021.
After meeting with APC leaders in Abuja that month, he registered as a member
in his ward in Ogun State on March 31, 2021. This move is viewed as strategic
to his ambition and vision of becoming the next governor of the state under the
APC platform.
Currently,
he is preparing to contest the party ticket against Senator Olamilekan Yayi,
who is well-liked in the state and has significant financial resources to
support his campaign. However, analysts opine that the selection of the next
APC gubernatorial candidate in Ogun will not be determined solely by financial
clout but will be influenced by the party hierarchy, from the president down to
state-level leadership.
Isaac
abimbade
(08155107955)
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