We Won’t Just Walk In’: AIO Seeks Elders’ Blessing Before Ward-to-Ward Campaign

ILA-ORANGUN, OSUN STATE – March 7, 2026

In a move that reflects both the progressive ideals of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the deep-rooted values of the community, Hon. Adeniyi Ismail Oluwatosin (AIO) has taken a deliberate and respectful first step ahead of the 2027 House of Representatives election: he approached the elders to seek guidance before engaging directly with the people.

The APC leader and aspirant for the Boluwaduro/Ifedayo/Ila Federal Constituency met with over 44 respected political elders of Ila-Orangun. The gathering was not a rally. It was a quiet, purposeful conversation focused on one humble request: permission to begin his ward-to-ward and house-to-house consultations.

"The street belongs to the people, but the right to walk that street comes from the elders," Hon. Ismail told the gathering with evident respect. "I am not here to announce my plans. I am here to seek your blessing so I may go and truly listen to our people."

The session quickly developed into a lively and thoughtful exchange. The elders, representing decades of political and community experience, pressed the aspirant on critical local issues — infrastructure deficits, healthcare access, educational gaps, and meaningful youth empowerment. Instead of offering rehearsed soundbites, Hon. Ismail responded with clarity and quiet confidence that resonated throughout the room. He listened as much as he spoke, taking careful note of the elders' suggestions and concerns.

Relieved that the aspirant had both the capacity and humility required for the journey ahead, the council formally granted their approval and blessing.

In a deeply symbolic and moving conclusion to the meeting, the wives of the elders entered dressed in pure white to offer prayers over the aspirant. Their declaration that "the white will not turn to red" was both a prayer and a covenant — a plea for a campaign marked by peace, integrity, and protection from the start to the finish.

Hon. Ismail expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him. "This blessing is not a trophy," he said. "It is a reminder that every door I knock on from this day forward must be approached with the same respect I offered here."

With this endorsement secured, Hon. Adeniyi Ismail Oluwatosin is now free to begin his grassroots outreach. The ward-to-ward tour will prioritize direct engagement, listening carefully, and building an inclusive movement firmly rooted in the communities of Boluwaduro, Ifedayo, and Ila.

This early alignment with the traditional and political leadership of Ila-Orangun positions AIO as a grounded, credible, and culturally attuned candidate as the road to 2027 begins to take shape.

Media Contact:

Adekemi T. S.

Director of Media & Strategic Communications

AIO Campaign Organization