Drama unfolded in Oyo State’s political space at the weekend as Adebukola Ajaja, a member of Governor Seyi Makinde’s Advisory Council, openly endorsed Ibadan-based media entrepreneur and philanthropist, Oriyomi Hamzat, for the 2027 governorship election.
Naijaonpoint reports that Ajaja made the endorsement during Hamzat’s formal declaration and induction into the Accord Party at the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan, where she described the aspirant as “popular, activist and Omoluabi to the core.”
Speaking at the event, Ajaja said Hamzat’s entry into politics was divinely inspired.
“People who know me know I give thanks to God before making remarks at any gathering. I have prayed several times, and my children told me to pray for Hamzat to join Accord,” she said.
Expressing confidence in the bid, she added, “I pray by 2027, we’ll swear in Hamzat Oriyomi as Oyo Governor.”
Ajaja also revealed that several former Accord members who had defected to other parties had returned alongside Hamzat, signalling renewed consolidation within the party.
Addressing supporters, Hamzat, who is the Executive Chairman of Agidigbo FM, formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship election, saying he was responding to the people’s call.
“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, provide opportunities for youth and women, and ensure that governance in Oyo State goes beyond rhetoric to real, measurable impact,” he said.
He added, “The people deserve leaders who listen, act, and deliver, and that is the promise I am making today.”
Dispelling rumours that he might hand over his political structure to another aspirant, Hamzat clarified his position.
He said, “Let me be clear: the ‘Oyo Npe Oo’ movement has officially merged with Accord, and I am committed to pursuing this governorship dream myself.
“This is about giving a voice to the voiceless, standing up for the ordinary people, and working tirelessly to build a governance system that is accountable, transparent, and responsive.”
The National Chairman of Accord, Maxwell Mgbudem, who presented Hamzat with his party membership card, described his defection as a major boost.
“Dr Oriyomi Hamzat’s decision to join Accord is a tremendous boost for the party. His dedication to public service and record of philanthropy make him an ideal candidate,” Mgbudem said.
Support also came from Osun State, as Governor Ademola Adeleke was represented by his Commissioner for Political Affairs, Biyi Odunlade.
“We recognise Dr Hamzat as a leader who embodies integrity, vision and commitment to the people,” Odunlade said, pledging collaboration between Oyo and Osun Accord chapters.
Earlier, the Secretary of the Oyo Npe Oo movement, Olanrewaju Oladejo, described Hamzat’s entry into the race as a statement of principle.
“Dr Hamzat’s decision is more than politics. It is a moral declaration that governance can still be decent, humane and people-centred,” he said.
The declaration event also witnessed the defection of political leaders from all 33 local government areas and 351 wards in Oyo State to the Accord Party, signalling growing momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship election.