Oke-Ogun, a region comprising ten densely populated local government councils in Oyo State, has been plagued by underdevelopment, marginalisation, and neglect for far too long. Despite its rich cultural heritage and vast natural resources, the area remains one of the most impoverished in the state.

With a population of approximately 1.5 million people, Oke-Ogun boasts an impressive landmass of 13,537 square kilometers, accounting for about 60% of Oyo State’s total land area. However, this vast territory is yet to be fully harnessed for the benefit of its inhabitants.
The region’s agricultural potential, once the backbone of Oyo State’s economy, has been severely undermined by the lack of proper support, inadequate infrastructure, and neglect. The absence of mechanised farming tools, coupled with the scarcity of credit facilities, has forced many young people to abandon farming for other ventures, such as commercial motorcycle riding, which poses significant risks to their lives.
Oke-Ogun’s educational landscape is equally bleak. Despite its large population, the region lacks government-owned higher institutions, forcing our children to seek education elsewhere. This has resulted in a significant brain drain, as many of our brightest minds are forced to seek opportunities outside the region.
The few available health facilities are often inaccessible, leaving residents to rely on private hospitals, which are expensive and out of reach for many. This has led to a high mortality rate, particularly among women and children, who are often forced to travel long distances to access basic healthcare services.
The region’s infrastructure is in shambles, with roads in deplorable conditions, making it difficult for farmers to transport their produce to markets. The absence of potable water supply has forced residents to rely on unhygienic sources, often leading to the spread of water-borne diseases.
Politically, Oke-Ogun has been marginalised, with its people consistently denied opportunities by the powers that be, to occupy the Number One Seat. The region’s votes have been crucial in determining the outcome of elections, yet its people have been relegated to secondary roles.
As the 2027 gubernatorial election approaches, the people of Oke-Ogun are yearning for a chance to produce the next governor of Oyo State. This aspiration is not just about regional representation; it’s about addressing the systemic inequalities and imbalances that have hindered the region’s development.
It’s about recognising the significant contributions Oke-Ogun has made to the state’s development and giving the region a fair chance to lead. We demand equity, justice, and fairness in the distribution of resources, infrastructure development, and political representation.
It is time for Oke-Ogun to take its rightful place in the development of Oyo State. As a people, we are no longer content with being marginalised and neglected. We are educated, capable, and deserving of opportunities to occupy the governorship seat.
To our fellow citizens in Oyo State, we appeal to you to recognise the potential in Oke-Ogun and support our quest for development and equity. Together, we can build a more prosperous and inclusive Oyo State, where every region has access to opportunities and resources.
The time for change is now. We must rise up and demand our rights. We must unite and work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and our children. The future of Oke-Ogun is in our hands. Let us seize it.