The bustling lanes of Bodija Market in Ibadan North, Oyo State, transformed into a vibrant stage of unity, gratitude, and political reaffirmation today as leading figures of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) converged to appreciate the electorate for their overwhelming support in the recently concluded House of Representatives by-election.
At the forefront of the high-powered delegation was Balogun Otunba Seye Famojuro, a close ally of Governor Seyi Makinde, joined by Chief Babatunde Tijani, popularly known as Double-T, the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, and the newly elected House of Representatives member for Ibadan North Federal Constituency, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (Don).
The visit, which turned Bodija Market into a carnival-like atmosphere, was marked by warmth, songs, and heartfelt appreciation.
It underscored the PDP’s enduring bond with the grassroots and reaffirmed the party’s dominance in Ibadan politics.
The by-election, held on August 16, 2025, was organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to fill the vacant seat left by the late Hon. Musiliu Olaide Akinremi (Jagaban).
Emerging victorious, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle secured a commanding 18,404 votes, defeating the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Hon. Adewale Olatunji (Murphy), who polled 8,312 votes.
The wide margin sent a strong message, not just about the strength of the PDP but also about the trust and confidence reposed in Governor Makinde’s leadership style and developmental strides across the state.
Speaking at Bodija, Otunba Seye Famojuro emphasized that the victory was not just a personal triumph for Oyekunle but a collective mandate for good governance and people-oriented leadership.
The atmosphere at Bodija was electrifying as traders, artisans, and community leaders poured into the streets, waving, dancing, and chanting praises for the PDP delegation.
Led by their association leaders, the market men and women sang songs of victory and showered blessings on the PDP, particularly hailing Governor Seyi Makinde, whose administration they credited with transforming Oyo State into a model of inclusive governance.
Famojuro, visibly humbled by the outpouring of love, personally engaged with traders and shoppers.
He acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Bodija Market Foodstuff Sellers Association, who had promised bulk votes during the campaign and fulfilled their word on election day.
In his remarks, Otunba Seye Famojuro said:
“We thank you for standing with us, for standing with Governor Seyi Makinde, and for standing with our candidate, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle.
You have proven that Bodija Market is not only a hub of commerce but also a home of loyalty and progressive politics.”
He further noted that the praises being showered on the governor and the Ibadan North Chairman, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, were more than words of flattery, they were a challenge to the newly elected House of Representatives member to perform exceptionally well and justify the confidence reposed in him.
Several market leaders used the occasion to express their gratitude and satisfaction with the PDP’s governance style.
- Babaloja of Ibadan North Local Government, Alhaji Muniru Bolaji, lauded Famojuro, Double-T, and Olufade for their consistent support, describing them as dependable allies of Bodija traders.
- Babaloja of Bodija, Alhaji S.A. Jimoh, praised the peace and stability brought to the market under PDP’s leadership.
- Chairman of Bodija Market, Oke Darosa (popularly called Soloja), showered encomiums on Governor Makinde and the Ibadan North Chairman for their accessibility and commitment to grassroots development.
“PDP Is a Party for the Humble and Kindhearted”
Famojuro, responding to the praises, reiterated a message that resonated deeply with the crowd:
“The PDP in Oyo State is a party for the humble and kindhearted.
If you are not humble, if you are not compassionate, there is no place for you in Governor Makinde’s administration.
That is why everyone serving under him is competent, humane, and knows their onions.”
This statement echoed the earlier sentiments of Babaloja of Ibadan north local government, Alhaji Muniru Bolaji, who described the governor’s team as “good heads” working tirelessly to serve the people.
The event drew an impressive roll call of political leaders, showing the unity and strength of the PDP machinery in Oyo State. Among those in attendance were:
- Alhaji Lukman Adesina, Chairman of all PDP Chairmen in Oyo State
- Hon. Sikiru Sanda, ALGON Chairman
- Hon. Demola Omotoso, Chairman, Oyo State Housing Corporation
- Hon. Glorious, Ona Ara Local Government Chairman
- Hon. Kazim Alimi, Leader in Ibadan North
- Hon. Josi, Leader in Ibadan North
- Hon. Mudashiru Kamorudeen, Lagelu Local Government Chairman
- Hon. Akeem Olatunji, Oluyole Local Government Chairman
- Hon. Alawode, Ibadan South East Local Government Chairman
- Hon. Demola Ige, Chairman, Oyo State Local Government Pension Board
- Hon. Lateef Adeojo, Ido Local Government Chairman
- Hon. Adebowale Falana, Chairman, Oyo State Youth Development Agency
- Hon. Handy Mustapha, Chief of Staff to Ibadan North Local Government Chairman
Their presence reinforced the solidarity within the PDP and its readiness to continue delivering dividends of democracy to the people.
