In a recent interview, Senator Felix Kolawole Ogunwale, affectionately known as Jumokol, highlighted the significance of Yoruba perspectives in the ongoing debate surrounding presidential candidate zoning for the upcoming 2027 elections.
He emphasized and told rctvnews correspondent the critical need to grasp the dynamics of current political trends and the evolving landscape at each stage of the electoral process.Senator Felix kolawole Ogunwale reflected on insights shared by Chief Bode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), during a discussion with Guardian News correspondents.
Acknowledging Chief Bode George as a respected leader within both the PDP and the Yoruba community, he recognized his contributions and influence in these spheres. However, Senator Ogunwale cautioned against dismissing candidates such as Atiku Abubakar based solely on geopolitical or ethnic considerations. He stated, “Excluding candidates from the 2027 presidential nomination due to their backgrounds is not a prudent approach and should not lead to the devaluation of the esteem and credibility of the candidate.”
He called attention to the current state of the PDP, noting that the party must return to the drawing board to reassess its strategies and realign its priorities. “The PDP of today cannot effectively compete alongside the APC, let alone secure victories for its candidates in upcoming elections. This means that, with or without the PDP, Atiku Abubakar will still contest. This reality needs to be confronted,” he asserted.
Senator Ogunwale further articulated that as Yorubas, it is essential to recognize that the 25% requirement for electoral qualifications, which has been eradicated by the Supreme Court headed by a southerner, should not be viewed as a determinant of a candidate’s worthiness.He remarked, “This perspective implies that other regions could potentially dominate the electoral landscape without sufficient support from our southerners.”
He underscored the importance of unity among the Yoruba people, warning that failing to rally around candidates who represent common interests could jeopardize our significance at the national level.
“The northern regions are expressing dissatisfaction with the current administration, and we must remember that it was the Hausa community that provided backing for the present administration. If they withdraw their support and we do not offer assistance, it will undoubtedly diminish our influence in national politics.”
Senator Ogunwale concluded by appealing to Chief Bode George to reconsider his views for the sake of the future of the Yoruba people and their active engagement in national politics. “We must find ways to collaborate and ensure that our voice remains influential in the political arena,” he urged.
