An Ibadan-based media entrepreneur and philanthropist, Oriyomi Hamzat, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State under the platform of the Accord Party.
The radio broadcaster announced his candidacy at a well-attended event held at the main bowl of the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, on Saturday. Organisers said more than 7,500 supporters drawn from the state’s 33 local government areas were present at the declaration.
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Speaking at the rally, Mr Hamzat, who is the Executive Chairman of Agidigbo FM, said his decision to seek the governorship was driven by what he described as an overwhelming call from the people to serve.
“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,” he said.
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He pledged to offer a listening and responsive leadership, adding that residents of the state deserved leaders who acted and delivered on their promises.
Addressing speculation that he might step down for another aspirant, Mr Hamzat dismissed the rumours, insisting that he remained firmly in the race.
“Let me be clear: 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,” he added.
At the event, the National Chairman of Accord, Maxwell Mgbudem, officially presented Mr Hamzat with the party’s membership card, marking his formal induction, The Nigerian Tribune reports.
Mr Maxwell described Mr Hamzat’s entry into the party as a major boost, citing his track record in media, philanthropy and community engagement.
“Dr Oriyomi Hamzat’s decision to join Accord is a tremendous boost for the party. His dedication to public service and his commitment to improving lives make him an ideal candidate for leadership in Oyo State,” he said.
He added that the party was focused on ensuring that democratic dividends reach citizens through what he termed people-oriented leadership.
Support for Mr Hamzat’s candidacy also came from neighbouring Osun State. Governor Ademola Adeleke, represented by the Commissioner for Political Affairs, Biyi Odunlade, said the Osun chapter of Accord stood firmly behind the aspirant, The Nigerian Tribune reports.
“We recognise Dr Oriyomi Hamzat as a leader who embodies integrity, vision and commitment to the people,” Mr Odunlade said. “Osun and Oyo Accord will work together to ensure that our ideals reach every corner of the South-west.”
Background
Mr Hamzat rose to prominence in Oyo State through radio, where his programme ‘Kokoro Alate’ on Agidigbo FM became widely followed for its focus on everyday struggles, social justice and community issues.
The show helped him build a strong grassroots following, especially among low-income residents who saw him as a consistent voice for the ordinary person. Over the years, his influence has extended beyond broadcasting to philanthropy and civic activism, cementing his popularity across Ibadan and other parts of the state.
His growing public profile has now translated into a political capital with his decision to run for governor on the platform of the Accord. Long regarded as a fringe party, Accord has recently stepped up efforts to strengthen its structure and visibility, particularly in the South-west.
Party leaders say it is positioning itself as an alternative ahead of the Osun off-cycle governorship election in 2026 and the general elections in 2027, banking on grassroots mobilisation and well-known candidates like Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State to expand its reach.
With figures like Mr Hamzat attracting large crowds and public attention, Accord appears to be gaining momentum as it seeks to challenge the dominance of the major parties in the region.
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