Radio broadcaster, Oriyomi Hamzat, has officially announced his plan to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship position.
The declaration, which drew a large crowd, was held at the main bowl of the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, on Saturday.
Mr Hamzat, proprietor of Agidigbo FM and presenter of popular radio programme ‘Kókóró Aláte’, said his ambition was prompted by a ‘divine call’, as well as calls from well-meaning members of the public.
“I never imagined I would join a political party, let alone contest an election. I have always been a supporter and cheerleader for aspirants and candidates, but God had other plans,” Mr Oriyomi said.
“I don’t have money or political connections, and I don’t have the backing of the government of the day. I have come with God, and that is all I need,” he said.
The media personality said his political aspiration is premised on the need to execute initiatives that would improve the lives of ordinary citizens, create opportunities and make governance impactful.
“I have accepted the call of the people to serve Oyo State. This is not a step I have taken lightly. My vision is to implement programmes that will improve the lives of ordinary citizens, create opportunities for youths and women, and ensure that governance in Oyo State moves beyond rhetoric to real, measurable impact,” Mr Oriyomi said.
“This is about giving a voice to the voiceless, standing up for the ordinary people, and working tirelessly to bring about a governance system that is accountable, transparent and responsive. We cannot continue with business as usual,” he said.
Publicly identifying with the ‘Oyo Npe O’ movement which heralded his ambition, Mr Oriyomi revealed that he would be contesting the governorship seat under the Accord Party.
“The ‘Oyo Npe O’ movement has officially merged with Accord, and I am committed to pursuing this governorship ambition myself. This is about giving a voice to the voiceless and standing up for ordinary people. Oyo State deserves better, and together we will make that change a reality,” Mr Oriyomi stated.
He added, “Today, I am publicly declaring my intention to join Accord as my political platform and to contest the Oyo governorship election in 2027 as a candidate.”
Welcoming and officially presenting Mr Oriyomi’s party membership card, the national chairman of Accord Party, Maxwell Mgbudem, praised the aspirant’s decision, public service and philanthropy.
“Dr Oriyomi Hamzat’s decision to join Accord is a tremendous boost for the party. His dedication to public service and his record of philanthropy make him an ideal candidate for leadership in Oyo State,” Mr Mgbudem said.
“Today, we take an important step towards ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach the people. This is about leadership that listens, leadership that delivers, and leadership that puts the welfare of citizens first,” he said.
