Ogunbiyi, who is a governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), received royal blessings during a visit to the Oluwo’s palace in Iwo on Tuesday.
Addressing Ogunbiyi and his supporters, Oba Akanbi lamented the marginalisation of Iwo land, which comprises three local government areas, since the creation of Osun State. He noted that the area had never produced a governor, deputy governor, minister, or ambassador.
“We pray that his ambition will come to fruition and that Iwo land will experience good fortune. He will emerge victorious like Aregbesola, Oyetola, and Adeleke as governor in 2026. We will also help him seek support from other monarchs across Osun,” the Oluwo stated.
The monarch added that the collective decision of 37 kings to back Ogunbiyi was based on his proven capacity and commitment to the development of Iwo and Osun State as a whole.
In his remarks, Dr. Ogunbiyi expressed gratitude to the traditional rulers for their endorsement, promising to bring inclusive governance and economic progress to the state if elected.
He said, “It is only in our federal constituency that we are presenting one aspirant. Other places have three or four aspirants, but here, we speak with one voice. I have come to seek the prayers and blessings of my fathers. Oluwo has the voice, influence, and power to make things happen.”
Ogunbiyi further emphasised that Iwo, being the third most populous zone in the state, deserves the opportunity to produce the next governor. “If we miss this opportunity, it may take another 24 years before it comes again, which will not be good for Iwo,” he added.
