Stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagelu Local Government of Oyo State have joined their voices in the call for increased female representation in elective positions, as Hon. Ramata Agberemi Dabor, popularly known as RAD, formally declared her intention to contest for a seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly ahead of the 2027 general elections.
RAD, a PDP member, made the official declaration today at Alegongo Community Grammar School, Akobo, Ibadan.
The declaration, which drew party leaders, women groups, artisans, and traders, immediately evolved into a passionate appeal for women inclusion, consideration, and loyalty with regards to the future direction of the party at the grassroots.
Speaking at the gathering, a prominent PDP chieftain and a close ally of governor Seyi Makinde, Alhaji Babatunde Tijani, widely known as “Double T,” described RAD as a tested administrator whose performance in public office has earned her the confidence of party faithful.
He commended her “ exemplary administrative skills” in her current role as Senior Special Assistant on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters to the governor, noting that her loyalty and consistency within the party structure set her apart.
“Hon. Ramata Agberemi Dabor has demonstrated impressive dedication, not just to her office, but to the ideals of our great party.
“Her support for women and her accessibility to party members make her a worthy aspirant,” he said.
Tijani further reassured members that the PDP remains firmly positioned to retain power in Oyo State beyond 2027, urging aspirants across board to conduct their campaigns with decorum.
“We must continue to engage one another with mutual respect. Internal democracy thrives where there is discipline and unity. Our strength as a party lies in our cohesion,” he added.
Also addressing the gathering, Alhaji Abideen Adeaga reflected on the broader significance of political ambition, describing aspiration as a natural and necessary driver of growth within any democratic setting.
According to him, the PDP in Lagelu has managed to maintain stability despite competing interests, attributing the development to what he called a shared commitment to party supremacy.
“Aspiration is part of life. What matters is how we manage it. In Lagelu, we have shown that individual ambitions can coexist with collective progress,” Adeaga said.
He particularly commended the Executive Chairman of Lagelu Local Government, Hon. Kamarudeen Mudashiru, for fostering unity within the party and sustaining grassroots development efforts.
“The chairman has worked tirelessly to ensure that PDP remains one big family here. His leadership has helped to stabilize the structure and deepen trust among members,” he noted.
Immediate past Executive Chairman of Lagelu Local Government, Hon. Kazeem Gbadamosi, in his remarks, openly endorsed Hon. Agberemi ‘RAD’ for the state assembly come 2027.
He insisted that Lagelu is politically peculiar in Ibadanland due to it’s history and ancestral root. He maintained that Lagelu would decide its own fate to select its representatives in line with the directive of the governor.
Similarly, the Agbaakin of Olounda, Chief Benedict Akika, commended RAD for her courage and political consistency over the years. He assured that she would receive all the needed support to actualize her aspirations ahead of the forthcoming 2027 elections.
Other party stakeholders in their separate remarks, urged supporters not to lose focus, insisting that RAD’s track record speaks to her credibility and readiness for higher responsibility.
“She has built a reputation for integrity and selflessness. More importantly, she is accountable. She has leaders who can guide and correct her when necessary. That is the kind of person we should entrust with representation,” one the leaders stated.
Taking the floor, RAD acknowledged the contributions of past and present male lawmakers from Lagelu, noting that their efforts have shaped legislative progress in the state.
Still, she made a firm appeal for a shift to enable the women have a strong voice at the legislative house. She noted that the party must go beyond rhetorics to act in line with the call for inclusion of special slots for female politicians.
“For years, our men have done their part in representing Lagelu, and we appreciate their contributions to the development of our state.
“However, the time has come to give women the opportunity to also serve and bring a different perspective to governance,” she said.
She pledged to build on the achievements of her predecessors if given the party’s ticket, promising responsive and inclusive representation at the state assembly.
“I am not coming to start from scratch. I intend to consolidate on the gains already made, while ensuring that our people feel the true impact of representation through effective legislation and constituency engagement,” RAD added.
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the Leader of Lagelu LG Legislative House, Hon. Idogbemi Aduragbemi, alongside market women leaders, artisans, and traders’ unions, reflecting a broad base of grassroots support.
