Ibadan-based media entrepreneur Oriyomi Hamzat has formally entered the 2027 governorship race in Oyo State, shaking up the state’s political landscape.

Hamzat declared his ambition over the weekend at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, where about 8,000 supporters drawn from the state’s 33 local government areas gathered in a show of force.

The sea of yellow outfits at the venue signalled his alignment with the Accord Party (AP), the platform on which he will contest the governorship election.

The Executive Chairman of Agidigbo FM said his decision to run was a response to sustained pressure from the grassroots, describing his entry as a people-driven movement demanding a break from the old order.

“I have accepted the call of the people to serve Oyo State. This is not a step I have taken lightly,” Hamzat said.
“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 added that Oyo residents deserve leadership that delivers results rather than promises.
“The people deserve leaders who listen, act, and deliver, and that is the promise I am making today,” he said.

Responding to speculation that he might eventually step down for another aspirant, Hamzat dismissed the rumours outright.

“Let me be clear: the ‘Oyo Npe Oo’ movement has officially merged with Accord, and I am committed to pursuing this governorship dream myself,” he declared.

He said his ambition is rooted in giving a voice to ordinary people and dismantling what he described as a culture of recycled leadership.

“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. We cannot continue with business as usual,” he said.
“Oyo State deserves better, and together, we will make that change a reality.”

At the event, Accord National Chairman, Barrister Maxwell, formally presented Hamzat with his party membership card, marking his official induction.

Maxwell described Hamzat’s entry as a major boost for the party and a turning point in its bid to expand its political relevance in Oyo State.

“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,” he said.

He added that the party is positioning itself as a vehicle for people-focused governance.

“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 citizens first.”

Also lending weight to the declaration, Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, through his Commissioner for Political Affairs, Hon. Biyi Odunlade, expressed full support for Hamzat.

“We recognise Dr Oriyomi Hamzat as a leader who embodies integrity, vision, and commitment to the people,” Odunlade said.
“Osun and Oyo Accord will work together to ensure our ideals reach every corner of the Southwest.”

He described Hamzat not just as a candidate but as a symbol of what governance should represent.

“We are fully behind Dr Hamzat as a symbol of fairness, opportunity, and tangible development for all citizens.”

Earlier, Secretary of the “Oyo Npe Oo” Movement, Dr Olanrewaju Oladejo, said Hamzat’s decision went beyond politics.

“Dr Hamzat’s decision is more than politics. It is a moral declaration that governance can still be decent, humane, and people-centred,” Oladejo said.

He added that the move signals a rejection of self-serving politics in favour of integrity and service.

The declaration also witnessed a mass defection of political leaders from all 33 local governments and 351 wards across Oyo State to Accord, signalling a growing momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.