Political activities in Oyo State took a dramatic turn over the weekend following the public endorsement of Ibadan-based media entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat, for the 2027 governorship race by Adebukola Ajaja, a member of Governor Seyi Makinde’s Advisory Council.
Ajaja made her position known during Hamzat’s official declaration and induction into the Accord Party at a well-attended ceremony held at the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan. In her remarks, she described Hamzat as a widely accepted grassroots figure, an advocate for social justice, and a man who embodies the core Yoruba values of integrity and uprightness.
According to Ajaja, Hamzat’s decision to venture into partisan politics was not accidental but divinely guided. She noted that she does not make public pronouncements without spiritual reflection, stressing that she had prayed consistently before the media executive’s political move. She added that even her children encouraged her to pray for Hamzat to align with the Accord Party.
“I strongly believe this journey is ordained. I have prayed about it repeatedly, and I am confident that by 2027, we will be celebrating the swearing-in of Oriyomi Hamzat as the governor of Oyo State,” she declared.
Ajaja further revealed that Hamzat’s entry had triggered renewed unity within the Accord Party, with several former members who had previously defected to other political platforms returning to the fold. She described this development as a sign of growing confidence in the party’s direction ahead of the next general election.
Addressing supporters at the event, Hamzat, who is the Executive Chairman of Agidigbo FM, formally announced his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election. He explained that his decision was driven by persistent calls from residents across the state who desire a new style of leadership focused on tangible results.
“I have listened carefully to the voices of the people, and I have accepted the call to serve Oyo State. This is a responsibility I do not take lightly,” Hamzat said. “My ambition is anchored on programmes that will positively transform the lives of ordinary citizens, create real opportunities for young people and women, and ensure that governance delivers measurable outcomes rather than empty promises.”
He emphasised that his vision is centred on responsive leadership, noting that the people deserve leaders who are accessible, proactive, and committed to service delivery.
Hamzat also addressed speculations suggesting he might eventually step aside for another aspirant, firmly dismissing such claims. He clarified that his political movement, Oyo Npe Oo, has now fully merged with the Accord Party and that he remains personally committed to pursuing the governorship ambition.
“This movement is about amplifying the voices of the underserved and building a transparent, accountable, and people-oriented system of governance. I am fully in this race,” he affirmed.
The National Chairman of the Accord Party, Maxwell Mgbudem, officially presented Hamzat with his membership card, describing his defection as a significant boost to the party’s prospects. Mgbudem praised Hamzat’s long-standing record of philanthropy and community service, noting that these qualities position him as a strong and credible contender.
Support for Hamzat’s ambition also extended beyond Oyo State. The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, sent a representative to the event, with his Commissioner for Political Affairs, Biyi Odunlade, commending Hamzat’s leadership qualities. Odunlade pledged cooperation between the Accord Party structures in Oyo and Osun states.
Earlier, the Secretary of the Oyo Npe Oo movement, Olanrewaju Oladejo, described Hamzat’s declaration as a principled stand rather than a routine political decision. He said the move reflects a belief that governance can still be humane, ethical, and focused on the welfare of the people.
The event also featured the defection of political stakeholders from all 33 local government areas and 351 wards across Oyo State into the Accord Party, signalling growing support for Hamzat’s candidacy and strengthening the party’s position as preparations for the 2027 governorship election gather pace.
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