The Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives and member representing Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency, Ibrahim Ayokunle Isiaka, has broken his silence over the controversy surrounding his failure to secure a return ticket for a fourth term under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that history and political realities would ultimately vindicate his contributions to the party and his constituency.
Despite the setback, the influential lawmaker remained visibly loyal to the APC and actively coordinated a massive mobilisation exercise for the governorship primary election of Solomon Olamilekan Adeola at Ward 5, Wasimi, Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State, where supporters turned out in large numbers for the exercise.
Speaking during an interview at the venue, Isiaka, who currently occupies one of the highest-ranking leadership positions in the House of Representatives, described himself as a committed party man whose political relevance and grassroots acceptance remain unquestionable across Ifo and Ewekoro communities.
“First and foremost, let me introduce myself. I’m Right Honourable Ibrahim Ayokunle Isiaka, a principal officer in the National Assembly, specifically the House of Representatives. By the grace of God, I am the fourth person in the House leadership hierarchy and number six among the 360 members”, he stated.
The visibly emotional lawmaker recalled his long-standing political journey, noting that he had consistently subjected himself to primary elections throughout his political career without demanding preferential treatment.
“This is my third consecutive term in the House of Representatives, and at no time was I simply handed a ticket. I have always contested through primaries. There was never any arrangement to zone or rotate positions between Ifo and Ewekoro”, he said.
Isiaka strongly defended his political influence and developmental impact in Ifo Local Government, dismissing claims that the people of the area were opposed to his continued representation.
“I want journalists to conduct independent investigations. Go to the market leaders, religious leaders, youth groups, and community stakeholders in Ifo and ask them who Isiaka is”, he declared.
The federal lawmaker highlighted several projects and interventions he facilitated over the years, including educational infrastructure, ecological projects, and community development initiatives, particularly the construction of a major canal project in Ifo aimed at preventing recurring flood-related deaths.
“For almost 30 years, people were dying in that canal. When I became Chairman of the Ecological Fund Committee, I initiated the construction of a three-kilometre canal. The people of Ifo still remember that contribution till today”, he said.
Isiaka also pointed to his role in strengthening the APC’s electoral fortunes in Ifo and Ewekoro, insisting that his political structure significantly contributed to the party’s dominance in previous elections.
“In the 2023 elections, my votes alone gave APC a lead of over 12,000 votes over the opposition. Those are verifiable records”, he stated.
Some members of his constituency within Ogun APC believe the decision not to return Isiaka to the National Assembly despite his strategic position as Deputy Chief Whip and his long-standing grassroots network may eventually become a major source of regret for the party if not carefully managed.
Premier World News also views Isiaka as one of the strongest political actors within Ogun APC, especially in Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency, where his influence continues to resonate among party loyalists, market associations, youth groups, religious bodies and grassroots mobilisers.
Although he admitted that there was noticeable voter apathy during the governorship primary exercise, Isiaka attributed the development to political circumstances surrounding recent party activities but maintained faith in the APC and the leadership of Senator Yayi.
“People were reluctant, not only in Wasimi Ward but across Ifo and Ewekoro. But we must continue to live in faith and accept the will of Almighty Allah,” he said.
Premier World News reports that despite his disappointment over the denial of a fourth-term ticket, Isiaka’s continued loyalty to the APC and his strategic mobilisation for Yayi’s governorship ambition have further reinforced his reputation as a disciplined party loyalist and a major force within Ogun State politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
