Ogun IPAC Warns Politicians Against Divisive Campaigns Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, in Ogun State has warned political actors against inflammatory campaigns and personal attacks that could heighten tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The state IPAC chairman, Abayomi Sanyaolu, gave the warning on Monday when Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, visited the council’s secretariat in Abeokuta.

Sanyaolu, who also chairs the Allied Peoples Movement in Ogun State, said IPAC would not support political activities capable of creating conflict in the state. He urged candidates and their supporters to concentrate on policies, programmes and ideas rather than attacking political opponents.

“Don’t put Ogun State on fire. I will not open my eyes, under my regime as chairman of IPAC, to allow people to start war in Ogun State, chasing ourselves because we are from different parties,” Sanyaolu said.

He recalled an occasion where governorship candidates from different parties were seen alongside the incumbent and a former governor, describing the cordial interaction as an example of how political disagreements should not translate into hostility among supporters.

Sanyaolu also stressed that political office should be viewed as an avenue for public service rather than domination. He urged anyone seeking to govern Ogun State to present themselves as servants of the people.

Adeola, who is the APC governorship candidate for the 2027 Ogun election, also called for issue-based campaigns during his meeting with IPAC. He urged politicians seeking public office to tell voters what they intend to achieve instead of focusing on insults and attacks against opponents.

“If you want to be governor, stop abusing people, tell them what you want to do,” Adeola said.

The senator said his political career had spanned about 23 years across the Lagos State House of Assembly, House of Representatives and Senate, arguing that his record should be assessed through his public service.

Adeola also rejected questions surrounding his connection to Ogun State, describing them as political manoeuvring and insisting that his roots and records could be verified. The issue has generated competing claims in the state, including a continuing legal dispute involving his candidacy and alleged state-of-origin status.

The meeting comes as political activity increases ahead of the 2027 Ogun governorship election. IPAC has previously said it intends to work with relevant institutions and political parties to promote peaceful participation and prevent electoral violence in the state.

Sanyaolu urged all political parties, candidates and supporters to avoid language capable of provoking confrontation, saying disagreements should be managed through democratic and lawful channels.

The council’s latest appeal places emphasis on issue-based campaigning as Ogun’s political parties prepare for the 2027 election, with candidates expected to present their programmes and allow voters to assess competing policy proposals.