As the call for power shift and rotational governorship continues to gain traction in Oyo State, former Deputy Governor, Engr. Rauf Olaniyan has positioned himself as one of the capable gubernatorial hopefuls from the Oke-Ogun zone ahead of the 2027 elections.
Olaniyan made this declaration during an Iftar programme held at his country home in Igboho, Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State. The event brought together some news men and supporters underscoring the growing momentum behind Oke-Ogun’s quest for the governorship.
Speaking at the gathering, Olaniyan emphasized that the struggle for an Oke-Ogun indigene to become the next governor of Oyo State in 2027 takes top priority. He stressed that while he is personally interested in contesting, his ambition remains secondary to the overall goal of ensuring the zone finally produces the next governor.
“It is no longer just a mere agitation; it is an indisputable fact that the movement for an Oke-Ogun governor has begun earlier than ever before,” Olaniyan asserted.
He reaffirmed his commitment and readiness to enter the race but maintained that the overarching goal is justice and fairness in Oyo State’s rotational governorship system. According to him, the peaceful and civil advocacy for an Oke-Ogun governor aims to highlight the need for equity in the state’s political structure, ensuring that the marginalized zones have a fair shot at leadership.
On the prerequisites for the governorship seat, Olaniyan confidently stated that Oke-Ogun has no shortage of qualified candidates, both at home and in the diaspora. He emphasized that the zone is more than ready to produce a competent leader who meets all the necessary requirements to govern Oyo State effectively.
With a touch of humour, Olaniyan remarked that even if the zone produces nineteen aspirants, he is prepared to be the twentieth—signaling his unwavering determination to be part of the historic push for an Oke-Ogun governor.
His statement reinforces the growing political movement within Oyo State, as stakeholders from Oke-Ogun continue to press for their long-overdue turn at the helm of governance.
