A foremost aspirant for the 2027 Oyo State governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK), has paid a historic royal courtesy visit to the Okere of Saki, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III, at his palace in Saki.
The visit formed part of Dr. Kareem’s ongoing statewide consultations with revered traditional rulers and critical stakeholders as he deepens engagement ahead of the 2027 governorship race. He stressed that traditional institutions remain indispensable partners in governance, peacebuilding, cultural preservation, and grassroots development.
Dr. Kareem expressed profound respect for the ancient stool of Okere of Saki, describing Oba Oyedepo III as a progressive monarch, intellectual leader, and symbol of unity whose reign continues to foster harmony and development across Saki land and Oke-Ogun at large. He noted that sustainable governance must be rooted in collaboration with traditional rulers who understand the pulse and aspirations of their people.
During the visit, Dr. Kareem presented his book and governance blueprint titled “Our Realistic Tomorrow” to the monarch. He explained that the publication encapsulates his vision, policy direction, and practical solutions aimed at driving inclusive development, economic revitalisation, and improved welfare for the people of Oyo State. He also formally sought the royal blessings and presence of the Okere of Saki at the forthcoming official launch of the book, describing such royal endorsement as a source of moral strength and inspiration.
In his response, Oba (Dr.) Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III commended Dr. Kareem for his humility, foresight, and respectful engagement with traditional institutions. The monarch applauded the intellectual depth of the governance blueprint and advised the APC governorship hopeful to remain steadfast, people-oriented, and guided by integrity. He offered prayers and fatherly counsel, urging him to always prioritise the unity, peace, and prosperity of Oyo State.
The royal visit was rounded off with warm goodwill exchanges and group photographs, symbolising a strengthened relationship between Dr. Kareem and the historic Saki traditional institution.
Dr. Kareem reaffirmed his commitment to purposeful leadership that respects tradition, embraces wisdom, and places the collective interest of the people of Oyo State at the heart of governance as the journey to 2027 gathers momentum.
