Dapo Abiodun Wins Ogun East Senatorial District Primary Election

The single sharpest fact in the recent APC primary election for the Ogun East Senatorial District is that Governor Dapo Abiodun secured 75,550 votes out of 99,503 ballots cast, winning across all nine local government areas. This outcome isn't just a victory for Abiodun; it reflects a broad endorsement of his record in office and his political standing within Ogun East.

What makes this victory significant is that it wasn't just about succession politics, but a referendum on performance, infrastructure delivery, economic expansion, and leadership continuity. Many party members believe Abiodun genuinely earned the ticket.

To understand this, let's look at Abiodun's background. He was born on May 29, 1960, in Iperu-Remo. He entered public office after years in business and corporate leadership. His private-sector career, which included Heyden Petroleum Limited and leadership positions in financial and investment institutions like First Marina Trust and the First Interstate Group, has been cited as a defining influence on his governance style - one that prioritises infrastructure, investment attraction, industrialisation, and fiscal expansion.

Upon assuming office in 2019, his administration unveiled the ISEYA development agenda

• Infrastructure, Social Welfare, Education, Youth and Women Empowerment, and Agriculture - as the framework guiding governance in Ogun State. Over the last seven years, that agenda has become closely associated with road construction, industrial growth, transport connectivity, and economic reforms.

One of the most referenced aspects of the Abiodun administration is its infrastructure development. Since 2019, Ogun State has reportedly constructed or rehabilitated over 1,600 kilometres of roads connecting industrial corridors, rural communities, and commercial centres. Among the major projects executed are the Epe-Ijebu Ode Expressway, Sagamu-Abeokuta Expressway, Sagamu-Iperu-Ode Remo-Sapade corridor, Ilishan-Iperu Road, and the Ijebu-Ode-Epe dual carriageway.

These projects have carried direct economic significance for the people of Ogun East. Improved road networks have strengthened access to markets. They've also eased transportation challenges and enhanced connectivity between Ogun and Lagos. Communities previously isolated by poor road infrastructure have become more integrated into economic and social activities.

The Gateway International Airport, located in Iperu-Ilishan within Ogun East Senatorial District, is perhaps the most symbolic legacy project of the Abiodun administration. It was commissioned on April 4, 2026, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The airport has become a strategic logistics and industrial hub. Manufacturers and businesses around Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, and adjoining industrial corridors now have a closer aviation gateway outside the congestion associated with Lagos routes.

President Tinubu said, 'In less than seven years, you, Dapo Abiodun, have demonstrated commitment, vision, and patriotism to grow Nigeria,' during the commissioning ceremony.

Supporters of Abiodun argue that his transition from Government House to the Senate would give Ogun East a more influential voice at the federal level. With executive experience, political access, and continuity, he's well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to legislative discussions around industrial policy, infrastructure financing, regional development, and investment promotion.

As the 2027 general election approaches, the wider electorate won't necessarily share the assessment of Abiodun's performance. Yet, within the APC, the message from the primary was unmistakable: many party members believe Dapo Abiodun earned the ticket through performance, political influence, and visible developmental impact delivered during his years in office.

Abiodun's supporters point to his background and experience as key strengths. He has a deep understanding of the private sector and public office. He's well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the Senate and advocate for the interests of Ogun East. His victory in the APC primary is significant because it shows he can win with a broad endorsement of his record in office and his political standing within Ogun East. Whether he'll succeed in the 2027 general election is uncertain, but for now, he's got a strong foundation to build on.

The fact that he's won the primary election means he's one step closer to becoming a senator, and that's a notable achievement.