AHEAD of the 2027 general election, a frontline aspirant for the Owo/Ose Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives, Chief Oluwaseyi Gabriel Ogundare, popularly known as OGO, is gaining significant momentum within the All Progressives Congress (APC), following strong backing from party leaders and stakeholders in the constituency.
Ogundare, a grassroots politician from Imoru in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, is said to have secured the confidence of influential party figures, positioning him as a leading contender in the race.
Sources within the party disclosed that the aspirant was highly rated during a recent stakeholders’ meeting convened to deliberate on strategies ahead of the election.
The meeting, according to insiders, assessed the strengths of various aspirants, with Ogundare reportedly emerging as a preferred choice.
A party source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, cited several factors that worked in his favour.
Chief among them was the reported decision by stakeholders to exclude the incumbent lawmaker, who is said to have completed two terms, from further consideration.
In addition, considerations of equity and zoning were said to have played a role, with stakeholders noting that the Owo axis had enjoyed substantial representation, including producing the current deputy governor.
This, it was gathered, informed a consensus that the federal constituency seat should remain in Ose Local Government Area.
The source further noted that Ogundare’s profile—characterised by youthfulness, international exposure, and a track record of community development – also strengthened his appeal among party leaders.
“He was considered competent and well-prepared for legislative responsibilities. His engagement at the grassroots and contributions to community development have not gone unnoticed,” the source said.
Ogundare’s growing influence has also been reflected in the conferment of traditional titles, including Mayegun of Uso and Aare Gbobaniyi of Upenmen Kingdom, in recognition of his contributions to local development.
Party stakeholders were also said to have been swayed by his perceived neutrality, particularly in contrast to some aspirants accused of fostering divisions within the APC in the constituency.
While the party is yet to officially endorse any candidate, indications from within suggest that Ogundare’s candidacy is gaining traction as consultations intensify ahead of the primaries.
