Traditional ruler says gesture reflects confidence in grassroots leadership and community service
The political landscape in Ado-Odo/Ota received another significant grassroots boost on Sunday as High Chief Babajide Durojaiye, Baale Odan of Itele-Ota Kingdom, presented a new Highlander Jeep to High Chief Olanrewaju Abayomi Bashorun (LarryBash), Seriki of Ota and the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the House of Representatives, Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency.
The presentation, which took place ahead of the forthcoming election, was seen as a demonstration of goodwill, encouragement and support for the APC candidate as he continues his engagement with communities, stakeholders and residents across the federal constituency.
The gesture was further strengthened with the provision of a separate vehicle customised as a campaign car for LarryBash, providing additional mobility for his expanding grassroots political activities.
At the presentation, LarryBash offered Qur’anic prayers over the Highlander Jeep, asking Allah to grant protection, wisdom, guidance and safe journeys to all who would use the vehicle.
The ceremony also brought attention to the growing role of traditional and community leaders in grassroots political engagement, particularly at a time when stakeholders across Ado-Odo/Ota are intensifying consultations ahead of the election.
High Chief Durojaiye’s gesture was viewed by those present as more than the presentation of vehicles. It was a public expression of goodwill and confidence in the importance of community-based leadership and effective representation.
As Baale Odan of Itele-Ota Kingdom, High Chief Durojaiye has remained an influential figure within his community, with his activities reflecting an emphasis on unity, peaceful coexistence and development.
For LarryBash, the presentation adds another dimension to his ongoing grassroots mobilisation, coming amid a series of meetings and interactions with political leaders, professionals, traders, artisans, youth groups, community associations and other stakeholders across the constituency.
The development also highlights the increasingly important relationship between traditional institutions and political stakeholders in fostering dialogue and encouraging civic participation.
With the 2027 general elections approaching, political actors in Ado-Odo/Ota are expected to intensify their grassroots engagements as the contest for the federal constituency gathers momentum.
The event ultimately conveyed a message of support, leadership, community solidarity and civic responsibility, while underscoring the significance of grassroots relationships in the political development of Ado-Odo/Ota.
