Igbomina Rising: The Case For Fair Representation And The Emergence Of Prince Lekan Adewoye

When Alhaji (Dr.) Sikiru Ayinde Barrister eulogised the late Chief Raheem Tejumola Onirin in his record-setting album Fuji Garbage. The world paused to celebrate the life of a business magnate of Igbomina heritage. The tribute went beyond acknowledging Tejumola’s entrepreneurial success — it spotlighted the industrious spirit of the Igbomina people.

The Igbomina, an influential Yoruba subgroup, spans parts of Southwest Nigeria, with a particular prominence in Kwara State. They are mainly found in three local government areas in the south — Irepodun, Isin, and Ifelodun — with a significant presence also in Ilorin East. Beyond their entrepreneurial prowess, the Igbomina stand out for their educational attainments and political participation. However, despite their population and influence, they have been underrepresented in the Senate over the years.

Between 1999 and 2006, Senator Ajadi from Ifelodun represented the district, but his re-election was overturned by a court. Senator Simeon Ajibola from Ekiti took over until 2015, followed by Senator Rafiu Ibrahim (Ojoku) and the incumbent, Senator Iyiola Ashiru, from the Ibolo extraction. The successive legislators have tried their best to promote legislative policies that support trade and commerce — the backbone of Igbomina’s livelihood.

With the 2027 elections on the horizon, conversations around equitable power rotation have intensified. While the call for northern Kwara to produce the next governor gains volume, the Igbomina people are equally pushing for justice at the senatorial level. They argue persuasively that it is time to zone the Kwara South senatorial ticket to their bloc.

Yet, the debate doesn’t end at the Igbomina claim — it extends to which of the three local governments should get the nod. Ifelodun and Isin have both produced senators in the past. Irepodun, despite its political structure, numbers, and resources, has yet to occupy the position. Many, therefore, believe it is a matter of justice to let Irepodun lead this time.

Kwara South is blessed with brilliant minds and capable hands across every professional sphere. One name often resonates powerfully in political and developmental discussions in the state — especially in Irepodun and the entire Kwar state Southern part of the state — Prince Lekan Adewoye.

From the royal family of Arandun in Irepodun LGA, Prince Adewoye is an embodiment of integrity, leadership, and enterprise. A business leader with over 25 years of experience, he heads Sunsteel Industries Ltd and currently chairs the Basic Metal, Iron, and Steel Sector of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN). His educational journey spans Lagos State University, Royal Roads University (Canada), the University of Cumbria (UK), and the prestigious Lagos Business School (LBS), equipping him with global perspectives in business and entrepreneurship.

Prince Adewoye’s philanthropic efforts through the Lekan Adewoye Foundation — which has provided healthcare for over 1,000 people and scholarships for 3,000 students — are reflections of his commitment to community development. He maintains that these gestures are rooted in service, not politics.

Guided by a political philosophy grounded in good governance — transparency, the rule of law, accountability, and inclusiveness — Prince Adewoye’s entry into the 2027 senatorial race is seen as a timely response to the demands of his people. His vast experience, extensive network, and proven leadership have positioned him as a fitting representative for Kwara South — ready to reimagine legislative priorities and elevate the people’s voice in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Abogunrin Oluwole Ade writes from Kwara State.
Oluwole is a statistics graduate from the University of Ilorin and can be reached on 08065922473