Attacks On Senator Adeola’s Indigeneship Are Distractions – Senator Tolu Odebiyi

Former Senator representing Ogun West Senatorial District, Senator Tolu Odebiyi, CON, has described the recent attacks and controversies surrounding the indigeneship of the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus governorship candidate in Ogun State, Distinguished Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), as unnecessary distractions capable of derailing meaningful political discourse in the state.
In a statement made available to journalists, Senator Odebiyi said Ogun State is currently confronted with critical developmental challenges, particularly in the areas of economic growth, job creation, infrastructure, and security, stressing that political actors should concentrate on practical and solution-driven conversations rather than divisive narratives.
According to him, any serious incoming governor already has enormous responsibilities ahead and should remain focused on initiatives capable of improving the welfare and living conditions of the people.
“The recent attacks on the indigenisation of our Ogun State APC consensus candidate are needless distractions that we do not need at this critical time. With the numerous challenges confronting our people, especially in the areas of the economy and security, any serious incoming governor already has enormous responsibilities ahead and should remain focused on practical, solution-driven initiatives that will improve the lives of our citizens,” he stated.
Senator Odebiyi further maintained that the issue of Senator Adeola’s indigeneship has long been settled and clearly established, noting that the Ogun West lawmaker remains a bona fide indigene of Ogun State, particularly Yewaland.
He added that the recently published booklet titled “The Progressive Yayi” has further reaffirmed Senator Adeola’s roots, parental lineage, and ancestral background.
“The issue surrounding Distinguished Senator Adeola’s indigeneship has long been settled and clearly established. He is a bona fide indigene of Ogun State, particularly Yewaland, as further reaffirmed in the recently published booklet titled ‘The Progressive Yayi,’ which details his roots, parental lineage, and ancestry,” he added.
The former lawmaker also acknowledged the political standing of Hon. Ladi Adebutu, describing him as a serious contender with deep, respected, and undeniable roots in Ogun State, particularly in Ijebuland.
While calling for maturity in political engagements, Senator Odebiyi urged stakeholders, supporters, and political actors across party lines to elevate the standard of discourse by focusing on innovative ideas, constructive debates, and creative policy solutions capable of transforming Ogun State into a true “State of Excellence.”
“I would strongly advise all stakeholders and supporters across party lines to elevate the standard of political engagement and focus more on innovative ideas, constructive debates, and creative policy solutions capable of transforming Ogun State into a true State of Excellence,” he said.
He emphasized that the people of Ogun State deserve issue-based politics centered on development, progress, and prosperity rather than unnecessary distractions capable of heating up the polity.
Concluding the statement, Senator Odebiyi reaffirmed his support for Senator Adeola, declaring: “Yayi is our own, and so shall it be.”

