A prominent political stakeholder in Ibadan, Hon. Mojeed Akintunde, has cautioned against the rise of what he described as “political tourists” in the Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Wednesday, Akintunde stressed that the constituency must be represented by a true indigene of Ibadan, warning that the city’s political space should not be ceded to individuals without deep ancestral and cultural ties to the ancient city.
He specifically raised concerns over the reported ambition of Rotimi Ajanaku, whom he described as a non-indigene, insisting that any attempt to impose such a candidate on the constituency would be rejected by the people.
Akintunde drew parallels with the 1983 general elections, recalling how Ibadan indigenes rallied behind Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo to defend their political identity. According to him, the episode remains a powerful reminder of the city’s resolve to protect its right to produce its own leaders.
He noted that the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has consistently upheld the principle that elective positions within Ibadan should be occupied by indigenes, describing the stance as a matter of self-preservation rather than exclusion.
“Ibadan is blessed with qualified, competent, and culturally grounded sons and daughters who understand the aspirations of our people and are ready to serve,” Akintunde said.
He further argued that leadership extends beyond academic credentials, emphasizing the importance of cultural connection, trust, and accountability. According to him, a true representative must understand local traditions and remain closely tied to the community even after elections.
Akintunde warned that allowing individuals without organic ties to Ibadan to emerge as representatives could erode the city’s cultural and political heritage, describing such a move as an unnecessary outsourcing of its mandate.
Responding to criticisms, he dismissed claims that advocating for indigenous representation amounts to tribalism. Instead, he described it as responsible political stewardship aimed at preserving Ibadan’s identity.
“This is not about rejecting others; it is about affirming ourselves and ensuring that those who represent us truly belong to us,” he added.
He called on political stakeholders, party leaders, and Ibadan indigenes to remain vigilant and ensure that decisions at both party and community levels reflect the collective will and dignity of the people.
