By Paul Joseph
The Igorisa family of Ode-Aye in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State has strongly reaffirmed the ancestry and identity of Hon. Bidemi Joshua Obayangban, describing him as a “bonafide son of the land” amid growing scrutiny over his origin.
In a formal letter dated April 20, 2026, addressed to Ondo State Governor, Orimisan Lucky Ayedatiwa, the family declared that Obayangban is a true indigene of Igorisa Quarters in Ode-Aye, dismissing contrary claims as “false, misleading, and without merit.”
The statement, jointly signed by senior figures within the family, noted that Obayangban “was born into the Igorisa family lineage and has remained closely connected to his roots, traditions, and people throughout his life.”
Family head, High Chief Edward Kayode Adebusoye, underscored Obayangban’s longstanding commitment to the community, describing him as a consistent pillar of support.
“For over four decades, Hon. Bidemi Joshua Obayangban has remained a dependable pillar of support to the Igorisa family and Ode-Aye community,” Adebusoye said. “He has never abandoned his people and has always stood firmly with us in times of joy and difficulty.”
Other signatories, including Revd. J. Ola Oluwagbemi (JP) and youth leader Snr. Apostle Sunday Omoguwa, also highlighted his contributions to community development and social welfare.
“His contributions have strengthened family unity and uplifted many individuals through his guidance and dedication,” the family stated. “He is widely respected for his leadership qualities, humility, and passion for community growth.”
The family linked its public clarification to Obayangban’s reported ambition to represent Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency in the 2027 general elections, emphasizing the need to correct the narrative surrounding his background.
“We believe it is necessary to clearly state that he is a proud son of Olowomeye in Igorisa Quarters, Ode-Aye, and a worthy ambassador of our family,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, youths of Ode-Aye Kingdom have also endorsed Obayangban popularly known as “OC General” as their preferred candidate for the House of Representatives under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
In a separate letter dated April 16, 2026, and addressed to Governor Ayedatiwa, the group cited his popularity, broad acceptability, and “highest electoral value” among aspirants as key reasons for their endorsement.
Signed by the association’s President, Adefuwa Akinyemi, Vice President Akinmoye Ajewole, and Secretary Adeoye Segun, the letter argued that Aye Kingdom remains the only major bloc in Ikale land yet to produce a representative in the National Assembly from the constituency since Nigeria’s independence.
The group noted that the Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency comprises 23 wards and three state assembly constituencies, with Aye Kingdom ranking as the third-largest community in Ikale land by size and population.
They further stated that while other kingdoms have enjoyed representation multiple times, Aye Kingdom despite having one of the largest populations in Okitipupa Local Government Area has yet to secure federal representation.
“After conducting a comprehensive assessment of all the aspirants, we have found that Hon. Joshua Bidemi Obayanghan… is the most popular, widely acceptable, and possesses the highest electoral value,” the youths stated.
“He stands as our best bet for securing the party’s ticket and winning the general election for our community.”
The group urged the governor and party leadership to consider zoning the ticket to Aye Kingdom in the interest of fairness and inclusiveness.
The Igorisa family concluded by calling on the government and the public to regard Obayangban as “a man of proven character, strong family values, and unquestionable roots,” expressing confidence in his ability to serve with distinction.
The development comes amid increasing scrutiny of political aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections, with issues of indigenous-ship continuing to shape political conversations at the grassroots level.
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