Hunye made the declaration on Saturday in Abeokuta while addressing journalists and supporters on his political ambition and the developments surrounding the 2027 governorship contest.
The development comes amid the controversy surrounding the outcome of the APC governorship primary in Ogun State, which produced Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as the party’s candidate.
Hunye has rejected the outcome of the primary and is challenging the process in court, insisting that the matter remains unresolved.
Speaking on his continued participation in the race, Hunye dismissed reports suggesting that he had withdrawn from the contest.
“I am still in the race. We are in court,” he said, urging his supporters not to be distracted by reports that he had stepped down from the governorship contest.
According to Hunye, his decision to unveil a running mate was informed by the need to remain active in the electoral process while his legal challenge is being determined.
He explained that the electoral process would eventually move into the campaign stage and that he needed to have a complete political structure in place.
Hunye said remaining inactive while pursuing his case in court could put him at a disadvantage should the judiciary eventually rule in his favour.
He therefore announced Otunba Abayomi Odunowo as his running mate, describing him as a trusted political associate with whom he could work to achieve his vision for Ogun State.
Hunye expressed confidence in Odunowo’s experience, political understanding and commitment, saying he believed his choice would strengthen the team.
The governorship aspirant also spoke on the question of Yewa identity, which has remained a significant issue in the politics of Ogun State ahead of the 2027 election.
Hunye maintained that anyone seeking to govern Ogun State from the Yewa axis should have a strong understanding of the challenges confronting the people and demonstrate a genuine connection to the area.
He also questioned Senator Adeola’s claim to Ogun State ancestry, challenging the senator to prove his connection to the state.
Hunye, however, maintained that his own roots in Yewa were well established, describing himself as a son of the soil.
The comments add another dimension to the political contest involving the two Ogun APC politicians, with Adeola already recognised by the party as its governorship candidate and Hunye continuing his legal challenge against the primary.
Adeola emerged from the APC governorship primary with 304,055 votes, according to the results announced by the party, while Hunye disputed the outcome and subsequently approached the court.
Despite the legal battle, Hunye said he remained committed to his governorship ambition and would continue to participate in the political process.
He expressed confidence in the judiciary, saying he would respect the outcome of the legal proceedings.
The unveiling of Odunowo therefore signals that Hunye is preparing to continue his political campaign while awaiting the determination of his case.
The development could further heighten political activity within the Ogun APC as aspirants, party leaders and supporters position themselves ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
For now, the APC’s recognised governorship ticket remains that of Adeola, while Hunye’s challenge to the primary continues to be determined through the legal process.
Hunye’s latest move has consequently added a fresh twist to the unfolding 2027 governorship race in Ogun State.
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