By Samuel Sunday
A wave of chants, songs, and dancing swept through parts of Ekiti South on Monday as hundreds of supporters turned out in a dramatic show of loyalty for Hon. Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, transforming what began as an Easter gathering into a powerful political statement.
The lawmaker, who represents Ekiti South West/Ikere/Ise/Orun Federal Constituency 1, was received by a jubilant crowd during the event, with constituents openly endorsing his bid for a second term and rejecting any attempt to impose another candidate.
Addressing the crowd, Ojuawo dismissed claims that he was backing any aspirant, insisting that the turnout reflected genuine appreciation for his performance rather than political maneuvering. He described himself as a grassroots politician whose strength lies in the people.
“This clearly shows the love my people have for me. The crowd is not about politicking but appreciation for what we have done,” he said, adding that the support reinforces his commitment to continue serving the constituency.
The lawmaker also used the occasion to drum support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji ahead of the forthcoming governorship election, expressing confidence that the APC would record a landslide victory with over 500,000 votes.
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the event unfolded against the backdrop of reported disagreements within the APC in Ise/Orun Local Government over an alleged endorsement of another aspirant, a development that has stirred tension among party members.
Ojuawo, however, downplayed the situation, describing it as part of democratic engagement. He stressed that differing opinions are normal in politics but must not be allowed to divide the party.
He called for unity among party members, urging them to avoid actions capable of weakening the APC, noting that governance requires collective effort and mutual respect among stakeholders.
Backing his second term bid, a party leader, Honorable Comrade Femi Babalola. Former commissioner for local government services and leader of the party, praised Ojuawo’s accessibility and consistent engagement with constituents, saying his track record justifies calls for continuity.
Similarly, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Femi Ajayi, dismissed claims of any preferred candidate, stressing that the party would adopt a transparent process where all aspirants must test their popularity at the grassroots.
The event ended with supporters singing and dancing as they accompanied the lawmaker, reinforcing the growing momentum behind his re-election bid and highlighting the critical role of grassroots support in shaping the political landscape ahead of the next general elections.
