By Olanrewaju Agiri
A chieftain of the Yoruba Youth Council Worldwide (YYCW), Comrade Olawale Shodeinde, has called on stakeholders and residents of Ogun Central Senatorial District to rally support for Emmanuel Adebola Sofela ahead of the 2027 senatorial race, citing his competence, leadership capacity and track record in both the private and public sectors.
Shodeinde, who holds the title of Aare Ataiyese Omoluabi Oodua Agbaaye, said the political atmosphere in Ogun Central demands “fresh blood and a new approach” capable of addressing the developmental aspirations of the people.
Speaking in a statement made available to journalists, the YYCW chieftain noted that the district requires leaders with integrity, administrative experience and the ability to deliver practical governance.
“As someone from Odeda Local Government, I strongly believe that the time has come for us to support leaders who possess proven competence, integrity and the capacity to deliver meaningful representation. Emmanuel Adebola Sofela represents those qualities,” he said.
According to Shodeinde, residents across Ogun Central are increasingly dissatisfied with politics driven by personal conflicts and unfulfilled promises, stressing that the people now desire purposeful leadership focused on economic growth, youth empowerment and improved governance.
“Citizens are tired of politics built only on noise, personal battles and empty promises. What our people desire is practical leadership that understands governance, the economy, business development, youth empowerment and the everyday realities facing ordinary families,” he stated.
He added that many party faithful and stakeholders now regard Sofela as one of the most credible aspirants for the Ogun Central Senatorial seat.
Shodeinde described Sofela as a seasoned professional whose career achievements reflect years of discipline, excellence and dedication to service.
He highlighted Sofela’s academic background, noting that he holds degrees from the University of Ilorin and the University of Lagos, alongside several professional qualifications and fellowships.
According to him, Sofela’s extensive experience in the banking and corporate sectors further strengthens his suitability for public office.
“From serving as Divisional Director at Equatorial Trust Bank to becoming Group Treasurer at Globacom, he built a reputation for strategic financial management and organisational efficiency,” Shodeinde said.
He maintained that such expertise is critical at a time when public office holders are expected to demonstrate accountability, prudent management of resources and sound economic judgment.
Shodeinde also referenced Sofela’s tenure as Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment in Ogun State, describing it as a period marked by reforms and economic progress.
He noted that under Sofela’s leadership, Ogun State recorded significant improvement in ease of doing business and investment promotion initiatives.
“One notable achievement was the significant improvement in Ogun State’s ranking on the national ease of doing business index. During the review conducted by the Presidential Business Enabling Environment Council (PEBEC), Ogun State moved from 29th position to 5th position nationwide,” he said.
Shodeinde attributed the achievement to deliberate reforms, strategic planning and a leadership approach focused on creating opportunities for businesses and investors across the state.
