In this interview, Tope Akintunde, the convener of the Yayi Progressives Movement, a powerful political organization in Ogun State, argues that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reform plans are still the best for Nigeria. Additionally, he believes that in the January 2027 poll, Senator Solomon Adeola and Prince Dapo Abiodun are the best candidates for Ogun State Governorship and Ogun East Senate, respectively. James Sowole provides passages.
What has been your political career thus far as a grassroots activist in Ogun State?
I am Armstrong “Tope Akintunde,” a member of the late Fowodara’s family from Ogun state’s Araromi, Iperu-Remo. I received my bachelor’s degree from the University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (UNAAB), which is now the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB).
In 2009, I started working as an executive director of special projects for Suru Group Limited, a real estate company located in Lagos. In addition, I held the positions of CEO and Managing Director at Aerofield Homes Limited. I’ve had the honor of going to a number of conferences, training sessions, seminars, and courses on real estate and project management in Nigeria, Europe, and the US throughout the years. I recently finished an executive real estate program at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School in the United Kingdom.
In addition to being a Certified Customer Relationship Manager (CRM/CEP), I am an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and a Fellow of the Institute of Professional Managers and Administrators of Nigeria (IPMA). Among other honors, the European-American University, in partnership with the Kingdom of Bunyoro-Kitara and the Republic of Panama, awarded me an honorary doctorate in business administration and corporate governance in recent years.
I have always been passionate about giving Nigerians adequate, affordable housing, and our activities are still guided by that objective.
On the other hand, politics gives me another way to give back to my community. My enthusiasm for public involvement and grassroots mobilization led me to actively participate in politics.
Nigeria is presently dealing with security and economic issues. Can President Bola Tinubu’s programs provide the intended outcomes?
Every country experiences challenging times. Nigeria is not an anomaly. I think the nation is headed toward recovery, even though the current security and economic issues are genuine. In order to combat insecurity, bolster the economy, and prepare Nigeria for long-term growth, President Bola Tinubu is working nonstop. Even though these reforms might be challenging in the near future, I have no doubt that history will recognize them as essential steps in rebuilding the nation.
No Nigerian is pleased with the current struggles, especially the insecurity, but significant reforms take time.
Rome was not built in a day, as they say. I want Nigerians to continue being encouraging, unified, and hopeful. I think the nation will eventually benefit from the sacrifices being made now.
How do you manage politics and business as Chairman of Aerofield Homes Limited and Convener of the Yayi Progressives Movement?
I think that having a clear purpose is the key to success. I work in real estate, but I’m passionate about public service in politics. By God’s blessing, both my business and political movement have become household names since I began both paths at a young age. I don’t think the two are incompatible. Because they each have distinct functions, they complement one another. I can contribute economically through business and socially and politically through politics. Successful management of both has been made possible by commitment, discipline, and careful preparation.
What led to the Yayi Progressives Movement’s formation?
The movement has had several phases of political participation. It started out as the Dapo Abiodun Continuity Agenda (DACA), which was created to help Governor Dapo Abiodun’s reelection ahead of the 2023 general election. The platform evolved into the Omoluabi Movement to incorporate more expansive progressive ideas centered on inclusivity and people-oriented leadership as political circumstances changed and consultations increased. It eventually became the Yayi Progressives Movement after strategic partnerships with a number of political support groups, including artisan associations around Ogun State.
This change was done on purpose. It demonstrates our commitment to creating a more powerful grassroots political platform that can unite people in Ogun State behind a common progressive vision.
What sets the Yayi Progressives Movement apart from Ogun State’s other political organizations?
With more than 50,000 members spread over the 20 local government districts in Ogun State, the Yayi Progressives Movement has developed into one of the biggest grassroots political organizations in the state.
Our inclusiveness is what makes us strong. We unite young people, women, professionals, students, craftsmen, community leaders, and party supporters on a single platform.
Beyond politics, we offer chances for civic engagement, leadership development, and mentoring, especially for youth. While encouraging grassroots involvement and democratic engagement across Ogun State, we are still dedicated to supporting all APC candidates.
What are Governor Dapo Abiodun’s prospects of winning the APC’s Ogun East Senatorial seat in the upcoming general election?
I think Governor Dapo Abiodun has a very good chance. His accomplishments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic growth are self-evident, having served Ogun State for almost eight years. His approach to leadership has been inclusive, consultative, and goal-oriented throughout the entire state. By moving to the Senate, he would be able to solidify the progress made under his administration and continue to promote Ogun’s interests nationally.
Senator Solomon Adeola’s rise to prominence as the APC’s favored candidate for governor has drawn criticism from the opposition. How would you respond?
Each opposition party has the right to voice its opinions. Nonetheless, we continue to concentrate on offering Ogun State’s citizens the greatest candidate. Since Ogun State was established more than half a century ago, Yewa has never produced a governor. Many think that by endorsing a suitable candidate from that axis, 2027 offers a chance to advance equity, fairness, and inclusivity. Senator Olamilekan Adeola’s dedication to public service and legislative expertise have proven his competency. I think he has the skills, background, and leadership abilities needed to effectively run Ogun State.
Why does Senator Adeola deserve the job?
Senator Adeola combines administrative skill, grassroots appeal, and legislative experience. He has established a reputation for responsible resource management, infrastructure development, and effective representation during his years in public office. Economic development, industrial growth, infrastructure revitalization, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment are at the heart of his agenda for Ogun State.
His capacity to bring disparate political interests inside the APC together while preserving solid ties throughout the state is equally crucial. I think he has the leadership, vision, and expertise necessary to take Ogun State to new heights.
What message do you have for the Ogun State residents?
As members of the All Progressives Congress, we pledge to keep rallying support for democratic development and decent administration. The Yayi Progressives Movement will keep growing its grassroots involvement throughout the state, promoting policies that advance sustainable development and fostering increased political participation. I implore Ogun State residents to continue being harmonious, unified, and dedicated to the advancement of our beloved state. By working together, we can create a more prosperous Ogun where all communities benefit from growth.
