Why Amosun Became A Talking Point Over Dimeji Bankole’s Mother’s Fidau Prayer

The eight-day prayer for Alhaja Monsurat Bankole, the mother of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole, was held on Friday, January 17, 2025.

The solemn celebration of life took place at the Abeokuta Sports Club in Ogun State.

It attracted dignitaries from far and near, including the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; former Governor Kayode Fayemi; former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika; ex-Senator Musiliu Obanikoro; and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara.

However, former Governor Ibikunle Amosun emerged as a significant talking point from the event.

He was the only one among those touted as having a strong say in determining the political fortunes of Ogun State ahead of the 2027 general election who was present at the event.

The other prominent players—Senators Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, famously known as Yayi (Ogun West), and Gbenga Daniel (Ogun East)—were absent, while Governor Dapo Abiodun was represented by his Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako Oyedele.

Bankole is one of those fingered as a possible next Governor of Ogun State in a gubernatorial race that has already produced Senator Adeola as the leading aspirant.

Senator Daniel, also a former Governor of Ogun State, and ex-Senator Amosun are believed to be in deep talks about working together to deny Governor Abiodun the chance to determine who becomes his successor.

All the political players—plus Bankole—are members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Amosun, who is not known to be a social butterfly, showing up at the eight-day fidau for Bankole’s mother and also playing the significant role of giving a tribute, has sparked off various narratives with political implications.

This is especially so because the former Governor attended the event with a crew from his inner caucus, including former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Muyiwa Oladipo.