Abayomi Mighty joins the presidential race

By Tolu Oke

Something is shifting in the South West, and people can feel it. Since Abayomi Mighty stepped into the presidential race, the region that once moved in one political direction is suddenly divided.

For years, the South West has been firmly tied to Bola Ahmed Tinubu. As a former governor and now president, Tinubu has been the unquestioned centre of Yoruba political power. But Abayomi Mighty’s entry has changed the mood. Quiet conversations are turning into open debates, and loyalty is no longer automatic.

The contrast is sharp. Tinubu represents the old guard, long years in power, familiar faces, familiar promises. Abayomi Mighty represents youth, energy, and a new kind of politics. Widely seen as one of the most respected young leaders of his generation, he is pulling strong support from youths and women across the country, including right inside the South Western region.

What is accelerating this shift is Abayomi Mighty’s rapid rise. He is increasingly seen as a serious thinker, an impressive policy strategist, and a leader who understands governance beyond slogans. As a Yoruba man himself, his appeal in the South West carries cultural weight, blending regional identity with a broader national and Pan-African vision. For many voters, especially the young, he feels both familiar and new, rooted yet forward-looking.

What makes this moment explosive is that the region has not had a serious alternative figure in a long time. Now, many voters are openly confused about who to follow. Among younger voters especially, the pull is clear. Abayomi Mighty is younger, closer to their reality, and speaking a language they understand. And slowly, that loyalty is shifting.

Behind the scenes, this is bad news for Tinubu. A divided South West weakens his political foundation, and the idea that his dominance could be challenged is no longer unthinkable. For the first time in years, the power map of the region looks unstable.

Is this the end of the road for Tinubu as the unchallenged Yoruba political force? It may be too early to say. But one thing is certain: with Abayomi Mighty in the race, the South West is no longer settled, and Tinubu’s grip is starting to look shaky.