2027: Ogun senatorial aspirant calls for fairness, women inclusion

An aspirant for the Ogun Central Senatorial District, Olamide Davis-Talabi, has called for a level playing field in politics, stressing the need for greater opportunities for women in leadership. Davis-Talabi made the call on Saturday during an interfaith programme held in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, where she formally declared her intention to contest the 2027 senatorial election. “The time has come for women to take their rightful place in leadership,” she said, highlighting the critical role women play in politics and governance. She pledged to implement practical and sustainable solutions to address the developmental challenges facing Ogun State. A Commissioner in New Jersey and General Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, USA chapter, Davis-Talabi underscored the importance of strategic partnerships with international organisations to support development initiatives in Nigeria. She cited examples such as food banks and sister-city collaborations as models that could be leveraged to boost socio-economic growth in Ogun State. Through her extensive international network, she revealed that she had facilitated the distribution of laptops to schools in Abeokuta, emphasising the need for development-oriented, issue-based politics rather than personality-driven campaigns. “Politics is not a do-or-die affair. Let’s play a levelled game. We must focus on what we can do for the people and approach elections with a positive mindset. It is equally important to support women in politics and give them opportunities to contribute meaningfully to governance,” Davis-Talabi said. She urged women across the state to actively engage in politics and decision-making processes, noting, “We are mothers; we understand what is best for our communities.” She also commended the 10th National Assembly for advancing women’s inclusion in governance and appealed to men to create more leadership opportunities for women. Davis-Talabi encouraged residents to register and exercise their civic rights, reminding them: “Your vote matters. If you do not vote, you forfeit the moral right to complain.” Speaking at the programme, guest speaker Rev. Ayanfe Olutola called for prayers over complaints, urging Nigerians to intercede for the nation’s leaders and security. He noted that human effort alone is insufficient for addressing the country’s challenges, emphasising the importance of divine guidance for peace and progress. Olutola also highlighted the concurrent observance of Lent and Ramadan as a period for unity, love, and spiritual reflection, calling on Nigerians to pray together and promote peaceful coexistence. Similarly, Muslim cleric Fadilat Sheikh Al-Khaleeefa Abdul Qodri Ishola Olorunseye spoke on the spiritual, social, personal, and health benefits of Ramadan. He stressed that beyond fasting, the holy month teaches tolerance, love, and unity among followers of different faiths, urging Nigerians to use the period to strengthen national cohesion and mutual respect.