Prince Thomas Ogungbangbe Seeks Osun East Senate Seat, Receives Warm Endorsement from APC Leaders in Ile-Ife
A crucial consultation meeting was held at the residence of Alhaji Sooko Tajudeen, Osun State APC Chairman, in Ile-Ife. The meeting was in honor of Prince Thomas Ogungbangbe, popularly known as Tom-Perry, who is aspiring to represent Osun East Senatorial District at the National Assembly; prominent leaders that attended are Prof. Moses Awogbade, Hon. Sooko Tajudeen, Fatai Kolawole, Hon. olubusi Oladosu, Hon. Olusegun Adeyemi, Alhaji Remi Arogundade, Baba feg, Hon. Felix Aboge, high chief akinwale akinwole, Johnson fakunle, Adegbola salisu and others,
The gathering commenced today, May 30, at 10:30 AM, with party leaders and stakeholders in attendance. Attendees introduced themselves, after which the host, Alhaji Sooko Tajudeen, welcomed everyone and emphasized the strategic importance of Ife in Osun politics.
Party Elders Declare Support
Elder Baba Feg delivered a heartfelt address, appreciating the presence of key party figures and urging support for Ogungbangbe. He highlighted the tradition of mutual support between Ife and Ijesa, recalling past victories made possible through such unity, including those of Senators Omisore and Omoworare. Baba Feg also noted Pince Thomas Ogungbangbe’s 21 years of commitment to the party.
Hon. Oyewole Oyebamiji, APC Chairman of Obokun Local Government, described Ogungbangbe as a committed and capable party man who has consistently supported the party since 2005. He lauded Ogungbangbe’s philanthropic efforts across Ijesa land and beyond, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver if elected.
Hon. Felix Aboge paid tribute to leaders such as Sooko Tajudeen, Senator Omisore, and others. He recalled Thomas Ogungbangbe’s journey with the party beginning in 2005 and how he had financially supported numerous candidates during local elections. He also underscored the significant role Ife plays in regional politics and praised Ogungbangbe’s commitment to unity and development.
Prince Ogungbangbe Presents His Vision
In his remarks, Prince Ogungbangbe recounted his humble beginnings in Iragbiji. A graduate of the University of Ilorin at the age of 20, he holds four master’s degrees. His professional experience spans sales, banking, oil and gas, and aviation, having worked in Nigeria and internationally. He co-founded one of Nigeria’s largest oil and gas firms and established Christ Is The Answer (CITA), now the country’s largest indigenous aviation fuel company. He currently serves as the outgoing Chairman of Aviation Oil.
Ogungbangbe shared his ambition to bring oil and gas investment into Osun State, stressing that such initiatives could create over 2,000 jobs and significantly boost state revenue. He also reminded the leaders of his contributions to agriculture, notably in cassava farming, and appointments he had received in previous administrations. He assured the leaders that all senatorial allocations under his watch would be transparently managed by a committee made up of APC stakeholders.
He made it clear that his mission is not personal enrichment but community development. Ogungbangbe called for full support from party leaders, stating his confidence in achieving victory if backed by them. He emphasized his record of integrity in every company he has worked with, adding that many employers retained him without annual leave due to his value.
He concluded by stressing the importance of unity and hard work ahead of the 2026 Osun gubernatorial election, noting that the party’s success in that race would pave the way for progress across the state.
Leaders Encourage Unity and Focus
Mama Ogunleye welcomed Prince Ogungbangbe warmly and assured him that the people of Ife remain loyal and supportive, advising him to never forget their contributions when he won.
Hon. Segun Adeyeni appreciated Sooko Tajudeen for facilitating a meeting focused on unity and advised Ogungbangbe to remain closely connected to party leaders.
Mr. Bisi Odewumi urged the aspirant to intensify grassroots engagement and rally support for the 2026 governorship election.
Bambam thanked Ogungbangbe for his past support to Ife and advised him to ensure fair representation and resource sharing across the five local governments of Ife when elected.
Hon. Ajewole Gbenga (Golo), APC Chairman of Oriade Local Government, was also present and lent his voice in support of a united front for the party’s success.
Closing Remarks
In his closing statement, Alhaji Sooko Tajudeen appreciated all attendees and expressed confidence in Ogungbangbe’s candidacy. He recalled the aspirant’s previous support for local candidates and advised him to maintain unity with other aspirants. He confirmed that Ogungbangbe donated ₦3 million to support Ife APC leaders present at the meeting.
Prof. Moses Awogbade, a former minister, concluded the event by commending Prince Ogungbangbe for his visit and generous support. He appreciated all party members and leaders for attending and reaffirmed the importance of solidarity as the party prepares for upcoming elections.
