Hajia Lateefat Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo takes on a major religious role while preparing for the 2027 elections in Abeokuta.
The Ogun State Muslim Council, Egba Zone, officially installed the Peoples Democratic Party deputy governorship candidate for the upcoming 2027 election, Hajia Lateefat Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo, as its new Grand Matron in a ceremony held on Thursday, October 1, 2026.
The high-profile event took place at the historic Ake Palace in Abeokuta, bringing together prominent Muslim leaders, traditional rulers, political stakeholders, and enthusiastic members of the local community to witness the decoration of the religious leader.
Sowunmi-Kolapo, who also serves as the Iya Sunnah of Egbaland and Ameerah of Ogun State, stepped into the prestigious position following the legacy of her late predecessor, Chief Khadijah Adebisi Edionseri, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
Significance of the Installation and Religious Leadership
Speaking after her formal installation, Sowunmi-Kolapo expressed deep appreciation to members of the Muslim community for the unprecedented support she has received throughout her religious and political journey, noting that she does not take the overwhelming love for granted.
Reflecting on her predecessor, she acknowledged that stepping into the shoes of the late Chief Khadijah Adebisi Edionseri is a big deal, adding that she prays Almighty Allah guides her steps and makes the continuation of this important leadership journey very fruitful.
Call for Active Political Participation and Responsible Voting
Connecting religious leadership with civic duty, the newly installed Grand Matron urged Muslims and other state residents to become much more active in political decisions affecting their future rather than assuming political authorities will automatically protect their interests.
She called on voters, parents, and community stakeholders to educate young people on democratic participation, actively discouraging practices that undermine elections, such as vote-buying, political violence, and voter apathy, while stressing the importance of peaceful civic engagement.
Socio-Economic Stability and Global Security Discussions
Earlier at the event, which was held under the theme, Socio-Economic Stability: A Fortress for Global Security, guest speaker Sheikh Sulaimon Faruq Onikijipa urged governments to prioritize citizen security, education, and basic economic wellbeing for a stable society.
Adding her voice to the discourse, Senator Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo commended the Ogun State Muslim community for honoring Sowunmi-Kolapo, describing the political candidate as a humble, faithful, and kind leader who deserves strong community support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was installed as the Grand Matron of the Ogun Muslim Council?
Hajia Lateefat Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo, the Peoples Democratic Party deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 election, was installed as the Grand Matron of the Ogun State Muslim Council, Egba Zone.
Where did the installation ceremony take place in Ogun State?
The installation and decoration ceremony was held at the historic Ake Palace in Abeokuta on Thursday, October 1, 2026, gathering traditional, religious, and political leaders.
What was the main theme of the Ogun State Muslim Council event?
The event was held under the theme Socio-Economic Stability: A Fortress for Global Security, focusing on education, economic wellbeing, and responsible democratic participation.
What did Hajia Lateefat Yemi Sowunmi-Kolapo advise voters to do?
She urged voters to reject vote-buying, political violence, and voter apathy, encouraging active and peaceful participation in the democratic process to influence leadership choices.
