Abeokuta — In a dramatic political development ahead of the Ogun State House of Assembly primaries, Olayemi Adebayo Sanusi, popularly known as OlayemiRoyal and son of the Ogun State APC Chairman, has officially stepped down from the race for the Odeda State Constituency seat in favour of Speaker Daisi Elemide following a consensus arrangement within the party.
Sanusi announced his withdrawal in an emotional statement released on Friday, where he expressed gratitude to his supporters and reaffirmed his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The young politician disclosed that the party leadership had chosen another candidate through a consensus process and said he fully accepted the decision in the interest of unity, discipline, and the progress of the party.
“The party leadership has, through a consensus process, selected another person to fly our party’s flag. In the spirit of discipline, unity, and the larger good of Odeda and Ogun State, I fully accept that decision,” he stated.
Despite stepping aside, Sanusi described the movement built around his ambition as a major political force that has already reshaped the political conversation in Odeda and beyond.
He declared that his decision was not borne out of defeat but out of commitment to the party and democratic values, insisting that the struggle for youth inclusion and progressive leadership would continue beyond the primaries.
According to him, the campaign succeeded in mobilising young people, inspiring grassroots participation, and promoting issue-based politics across the constituency.
Sanusi also appreciated party leaders, volunteers, women, elders, and youths who stood by him throughout the process, describing them as the backbone of the movement.
“Our work does not end here. The primary may be over, but the movement for a progressive, youth-driven Odeda has just begun,” he added.
Political observers believe the development may further strengthen Speaker Daisi Elemide’s position within the APC structure ahead of the primaries, while also positioning Sanusi as one of the emerging youth voices in Ogun politics.
The withdrawal has already sparked reactions across political circles in Ogun State, with many describing the move as a strategic sacrifice aimed at preserving party unity ahead of the 2027 political battles.
