The political atmosphere in Oyo State witnessed a significant tremor on Wednesday as a prominent grassroots mobilizer and seasoned contender, Samson Opeyemi Fatola, popularly known as “Te s’oju e,” officially declared his intention to contest the Ibadan Southwest/Northwest Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.
In a move that signals a clear alignment within the internal dynamics of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Fatola stated that his bid would be prosecuted under the “legally constituted” leadership of the party, which he identified as the structure currently supported by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency Nyesom Wike.
Addressing a gathering of supporters and party faithful, Fatola underscored his readiness for the task ahead, drawing on a decade of political participation.
He reminded the constituency of his previous outings, including his 2015 run for the Green Chamber under the Accord Party and his more recent 2023 attempt for the State House of Assembly.
”I have walked this terrain before,” Fatola asserted. “I am not a political neophyte. I am here again to continue from where I left off in 2023, driven by a resolve to give back to a community that has shaped me.”
Fatola’s declaration was notably heavy on party ideology, particularly regarding the recent leadership disputes that have characterized the PDP nationally. 
He threw his weight behind the outcomes of the National Convention held in Abuja on March 29-30, describing it as the “definitive pivot point” for the party’s future.
In a direct swipe at individual-driven politics, Fatola emphasized that his loyalty lies with the institutional framework of the party rather than personal fiefdoms.
”My decision to align with the nationally recognized leadership is based on party supremacy and not that of an individual over the party,” he said.
“The hopes of many are rekindled by court rulings affirming this leadership. Any right-thinking member does not need a soothsayer to know where the party is rightly positioned.”
Fatola expressed confidence in the current PDP structure to conduct a primary exercise that is “devoid of favoritism, partisanship, and dictatorial tendencies.”
He framed his candidacy as a mission of “service to humanity,” calling on the people of Ibadan Southwest and Northwest to support a vision of responsible and appropriate representation.
As the race for the 2027 general elections begins to take shape in Oyo State, Fatola’s early and emphatic alignment with the Wike-led faction sets the stage for what is expected to be a high-stakes battle for the soul of the constituency.
”Power belongs to the people,” Fatola concluded, echoing the PDP’s long- standing mantra. “Let’s do it together.”
