A House of Representatives aspirant for Ibadan North West/Ibadan South West Federal Constituency, Mayegun Sunday Olusegun Babanumi, has said he is awaiting the directive of Seyi Makinde before taking the next major step in his political ambition.
Babanumi made this known during an interview on Omo Talaka, a programme aired on Solution FM 93.9 Ibadan on May 2, 2026, where he spoke extensively on his aspirations, leadership philosophy, and plans for the constituency.
According to him, his decision to wait for the governor’s signal is rooted in discipline and respect for party structure.
“Leadership is about order and loyalty. Governor Makinde leads and I follow.
As a devoted PDP member, I believe structure matters. You don’t run ahead of the captain of the ship,” he said.
The aspirant described Makinde as a practical leader whose governance style has positively impacted Oyo State through visible infrastructural and socio-economic development.
He also commended the governor for prioritizing merit over political godfatherism, noting that such an approach inspires confidence among loyal party members.
Reacting to criticisms that his stance suggests political submission, Babanumi dismissed the claim, insisting that it reflects discipline and focus.
He added that loyalty and integrity remain essential qualities for effective representation.
On campaign strategy, the aspirant cautioned against overreliance on social media, describing it as a tool rather than a substitute for grassroots engagement.
He stressed that his approach prioritizes physical presence among constituents over digital publicity, warning against what he termed deceptive online political narratives.
Speaking on what distinguishes him from other contenders, Babanumi highlighted his deep-rooted connection with the constituency.
He recounted his upbringing in areas such as Inalende, Alawo, Oke Padre, Ekotedo, and Opo-Yiosa, where he engaged in petty trading to support himself at a young age.
“I understand the realities of the people because I lived them. My background prepared me for servant leadership,” he said, adding that his longstanding support for widows, students, and community members predates his political ambition.
He further noted that his aspiration aligns with Makinde’s developmental vision for the state, promising to complement ongoing efforts by attracting federal presence to the constituency if elected.
Outlining his priorities for the first 100 days in office, Babanumi listed human capital development, youth empowerment, and infrastructure as key focus areas.
He pledged to facilitate federal job opportunities, push for constituency-based projects, and establish a feedback mechanism to maintain direct communication with residents.
Addressing concerns about his cautious political style, the aspirant maintained that elections are won on trust and substance rather than noise.
“The electorate is wiser now. I would rather be seen as cautious and deliver than be loud without results,” he stated.
In his closing remarks, Babanumi called for collective effort toward development, emphasizing unity and shared progress among constituents.
His campaign slogan, “The Steward You Know, The Representative You Can Trust,” underscores his message of continuity, service, and grassroots connection ahead of the 2027 general elections.
