Ex-CBN Deputy Gov, Lemo Withdraws From Ogun Governorship Race

Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Tunde Lemo, has withdrawn from the Ogun State governorship race, throwing his support behind Senator Solomon Adeola, widely known as Yayi, following his emergence as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate for the 2027 election.

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Lemo announced his decision on Wednesday in Abeokuta, saying it followed “deep reflection and wide consultations” with party leaders and stakeholders across the state. He described the move as a strategic realignment aimed at strengthening both the party and Ogun State’s future.

“This is not a retreat from service. It is a deliberate, strategic alignment for the greater good,” he said.

Expressing confidence in the party’s leadership, Lemo noted that APC elders believe Adeola has the capacity to build on the achievements of Governor Dapo Abiodun and further position Ogun as a hub for industry and innovation. He added that adopting a consensus candidate would help promote unity across the state’s three senatorial districts and improve the party’s chances in the election.

Warning against internal divisions, Lemo urged party members to rally together. He said disunity had long weakened progressive forces and called on leaders to prioritise collective strength over personal ambition.

He also directed his supporters and political network across Ogun’s 20 local government areas to fully mobilise behind Adeola’s campaign. Lemo pledged to contribute his expertise in finance, enterprise, and public policy toward ensuring the party’s victory and effective governance.

He expressed appreciation to the APC leadership at both national and state levels, as well as traditional rulers and the people of Ogun State, for their continued support. He urged stakeholders to remain focused on the bigger picture.

“The contest ahead is not about individuals. It is about Ogun’s future. Let us remain united, focused, and committed to victory,” he said.

Lemo’s announcement comes two days after the Ogun APC formally adopted Adeola as its governorship candidate for the 2027 general elections. The decision was reached at a state strategic caucus meeting held on Monday in Abeokuta and presided over by the state party chairman, Yemi Sanusi.