…Call for Reconstitution of Market Leaders’ Council, Clarify Position on 2027 Elections
Market leaders and stakeholders in Oyo State have distanced themselves from reports suggesting their support for a governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election. In a communiqué signed by the chairpersons of twelve market clusters after a press briefing in Ibadan, the leaders disowned Alhaja Saratu Aduke Konibaje, who had publicly declared support for Engr. Remi Oseni of the APC.
The market leaders emphasized that Alhaja Konibaje’s statements reflect her personal opinion and not the collective stance of Oyo State traders. They further questioned her self-proclaimed title as the Iyaloja General of Oyo State, asserting that no such position currently exists.
“Who gave her the authority to speak on behalf of traders in Oyo State? Presently, we don’t have an Iyaloja General, and no one should lay claim to the title,” the communiqué stated.
The leaders urged traders to ignore directives from any individual regarding the 2027 gubernatorial race and wait for instructions at the appropriate time. They reiterated their unwavering support for Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration, applauding his policies and infrastructural projects across the state.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji Yekini Abass (popularly known as YK Abass), denied allegations that the association had received money from any political aspirant. He declared the group’s loyalty to Governor Makinde, assuring him of their collective backing.
“We assure Governor Makinde that all the market associations in Oyo State stand firmly behind him. We urge him to remain confident in our support,” Alhaji Abass said.
He also called on the governor to reconstitute the Oyo State Market Leaders’ Council to strengthen the association’s operations and requested additional support, including the provision of buses for market associations, similar to those donated to other groups in the state.
Similarly, Chief Mrs. Julianna Raimi, the Asiwaju Oloja General of Oyo State, praised Governor Makinde for his achievements in road and infrastructure development, reaffirming the association’s tradition of supporting the government in power. She discredited the activities of alleged impostors tarnishing the image of the market associations.
The convener of the meeting, Hon. Taiwo Ige, emphasized that the meeting was organized to assure Governor Seyi Makinde of the traders’ unwavering loyalty and support for his administration.
The traders and stakeholders who comprised of 12 clusters and the Babaloja of Oyo State vowed to continue collaborating with the governor to ensure the state’s growth and stability.
