Oke-Ogun’s quest for Oyo governorship: A struggle for equity and justice

By Akeem Bonuola

THE Oke-Ogun region in Oyo State is increasingly becoming a hotbed of political activity as stakeholders push for the region’s turn to produce the next governor in 2027. At the forefront of this movement is Egbe Ajosepo Fun Itesiwaju Gbogbo Wa, a non-partisan pressure group led by Engr. Dauda Olaifa. The group’s vision is to facilitate the emergence of an indigene of Oke-Ogun as the next Governor of Oyo State, regardless of religious affiliation, place of origin in Oke-Ogun, political allegiance, or gender. This development has sparked renewed hope and enthusiasm among the people of Oke-Ogun, who believe that their time to lead the state has finally come.

The demand for rotational governorship in Oyo State stems from the perceived dominance of the Ibadan region, which has produced four out of the five governors since the return of democracy in 1999. Ogbomosho region, on the other hand, has had one chance to govern. This has created a sense of marginalisation among other regions, particularly Oke-Ogun. Former Minister Adebayo Shittu argues that it’s time for Oke-Ogun to take its turn, citing the need for fairness and equity. “We’ve had four governors from Ibadan, and it’s time for Ibadan to concede to Oke-Ogun,” Shittu said. This sentiment is widely shared among the people of Oke-Ogun, who feel that their region has been overlooked for too long.

Under the leadership of Engr. Dauda Olaifa, Egbe Ajosepo Fun Itesiwaju Gbogbo Wa has been rallying support for Oke-Ogun’s governorship aspirations. The group has adopted the slogan – GOAL “GóminaÓyòÁwáLókán” (It’s our turn to lead Oyo State) to emphasise their commitment to equality, justice, and mutual respect. Through grassroots mobilisation and stakeholder engagement, the group is building a strong foundation for Oke-Ogun’s governorship bid. By engaging with various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, religious leaders, politicians, town’s unions, various organisations, and other regions, EgbeAjosepo Fun ItesiwajuGbogboWa is creating a united front that will propel Oke-Ogun to the forefront of Oyo State politics.

Several notable individuals from Oke-Ogun have been mentioned or being fingered as potential gubernatorial candidates. These include Amofin Beulah Adeoye, a strong PDP chieftain from Ipapo in Itesiwaju local government; Engr. Rauf Olaniyan, the immediate past Deputy Governor of Oyo State from Igboho; Senator Hosea Ayoola, a former member of the Senate and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters from Igbojaye in Itesiwaju local government; Barrister Abdurraheem Adebayo Shittu, an APC chieftain from Saki and former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy; Dr. GbengaAdegbola, an APC chieftain from Saki and retired Military Officer; Barrister BayoLawal, the current Deputy Governor of Oyo State from Kishi; Dr. KazeemAyandoye, an APC chieftain from Kishi; Chief AbduljeleelAbiodunOwonikoko, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Iseyin; Hon Taoreed Shina Abiola Peller, a PDP chieftain from Iseyin; Barrister AdeniyiFarinto, a PDP stalwart and former commissioner in Gov. Makinde’s first tenure; and Sir RiliwanAleshinloye, a Lagos-based socialite and former local government chairman in Lagos State. Each of these candidates brings unique strengths and experiences to the table, and the people of Oke-Ogun are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to support their preferred candidate.

As the 2027 governorship election approaches, the people of Oke-Ogun are determined to make their voices heard and assert their claim to the governorship seat. With Egbe Ajosepo Fun Itesiwaju Gbogbo Wa at the forefront, the region is poised to challenge the status quo and demand a more inclusive and equitable political process. The group’s efforts are expected to galvanise support from various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, religious leaders, politicians, township associations, and other organisations. By working together, the people of Oke-Ogun can ensure that their region takes its rightful place as the seat of power in Oyo State.

The Oke-Ogun governorship bid is not just about one region’s aspirations; it’s about creating a more just and equitable society for all Oyo State citizens. If successful, the emergence of an Oke-Ogun governor would mark a significant shift in the state’s political landscape, promoting unity, stability, and progress. As the people of Oke-Ogun continue to mobilise and advocate for their rights, the stage is set for a potentially game-changing election in 2027. With determination, unity, and a clear vision, Oke-Ogun can lead Oyo State, bringing hope and prosperity to all its citizens.

• Bonuola, the Assistant General Secretary, Egbe Ajosepo Fun Itesiwaju GbogboWa, sent this from Ibadan, Oyo State.

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