How I Supported PDP Victories — Segelu Fires Back at Critics Over Political Value

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party in Oyo State, Olayinka Segelu, has defended his political relevance, detailing his contributions to past electoral victories of the party while dismissing recent claims downplaying his influence.

Segelu, who spoke through his media office in Ibadan, said criticisms questioning his electoral value were unfounded and failed to acknowledge his years of financial support, grassroots mobilisation, and strategic involvement in party campaigns, particularly in Lagelu Local Government Area and surrounding communities.

Reacting to the allegations, the PDP chieftain said his political investments and loyalty to the party structure were well documented, stressing that his role in previous election cycles contributed significantly to the party’s success at the polls.

“The attention of our office has been drawn to comments questioning the electoral value and political relevance of Chief Olayinka Segelu,” the statement read.

“For the record, Chief Olayinka Segelu has been a consistent financier, mobiliser, and grassroots coordinator within the party structure in Lagelu Local Government and beyond.”

Segelu’s media office highlighted his visible support during the 2018/2019 governorship campaign of Seyi Makinde, noting that he personally branded a campaign bus to boost mobilisation and visibility for the party at the time.

According to the statement, the initiative was undertaken with the knowledge and acknowledgment of top party leaders, including the late former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Kehinde Ayoola, and the late former Oyo PDP Chairman, Taofeek Oyetunde Olayiwola.

It also referenced recognition from former Chief of Staff to the Governor, Bisi Ilaka, and party stalwart Dare Adeleke, who were said to be aware of his campaign contributions.

The statement further disclosed that Segelu sustained his support during Makinde’s 2022/2023 re-election bid, branding three additional vehicles to aid campaign operations across strategic locations.

“Furthermore, in 2022/2023, he again branded three vehicles for the re-election campaign. These contributions were publicly documented in videos and media publications and remain undeniable,” the media office stated.

To reinforce his grassroots credentials, Segelu’s camp pointed to video evidence from the last general election, which it said demonstrated his mobilisation strength across Ward 2, Ward 11, Ward 12, and the wider Igbo Elerinland axis comprising over 300 villages and towns.

“Leadership is not noise; it is structure, investment, and recognition. Silence should never be mistaken for absence, and loyalty should never be mistaken for weakness,” the statement added.

The aspirant maintained that as political realignments begin ahead of the 2027 governorship race, his established structure, acceptance at the grassroots, and long-standing commitment to the party would continue to position him as a formidable stakeholder within the PDP.

“As 2027 approaches, we remain confident that political structure, grassroots acceptance, and proven commitment will speak louder than unfounded claims,” the statement concluded, adding that Segelu remains calm and focused on strengthening party unity and stability.