In a clarion call that resonated across the political landscape of Oyo State, Dr. Gbenga Adegbola, a retired military officer, philanthropist, community development advocate and governorship hopeful, has urged the people of Oke-Ogun to rise above internal divisions and unite with one voice in the quest to produce the next governor of the state in 2027.
Speaking at a Statewide Advocacy for Governorship Power Rotation to other regions of Oyo State, organized by Ẹgbẹ́ Àjọṣepọ̀ Fún Ilosiwaju Gbogbo Wa, a socio-political advocacy group agitating for equitable power distribution beyond Ibadan, Dr. Adegbola stressed that Oke-Ogun possesses the human capital, natural resources and socio-political strength to lead the state, provided the region forges genuine unity.
“Oke-Ogun must come together as one, forget our differences, and speak with a single voice. Only then can we achieve our noble goal of producing the governor of Oyo State in 2027. The time has come for us to stop playing second fiddle and to maximize our resources for leadership,” he declared.
Chairman of the group, Engr. Dauda Olaifa Alade, echoed this sentiment, underscoring that Oyo State belongs to every citizen and region, not to one dominant bloc. According to him, “For peace, justice and sustainable development to reign, every region must be given a fair shot at the governorship seat. Our unity must be built on fairness, and our future guided by inclusivity.”
The Secretary of the group, Pastor Favour Adewoyin, warned aspirants from the marginalised regions against settling for the role of deputy governor or other appointments at the expense of the primary objective of power rotation. “We must remain focused and not be swayed by offers that derail our collective mission,” he cautioned.
Also lending her voice, Mrs. Oladipupo Grace Funmilayo commended the group for extending its advocacy to Ibadan, appealing for solidarity and support from other regions in order to foster inclusivity in the governance of Oyo State.
The gathering drew a wide spectrum of dignitaries, reflecting the seriousness of the call for equity. Among those present were Professor Jacob Olaniyi, Professor Emeritus Layi Egunjobi, former Minister of Communications Hon. Adebayo Shittu, Alh. Alli Oyedeji, Hon. Adebayo Olagbenro, Alh. Isiaq Olaoye, Hon. Oluokun Ademola, Hon. Azeez Yunus, as well as representatives from across Oyo’s geopolitical zones.
The advocacy for power shift continues to gain traction across the state, as stakeholders emphasize that inclusive governance, anchored on justice and fairness, is indispensable for unity and sustainable progress in Oyo State.
