In a significant political development, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has officially announced his ambition to contest the Oyo State governorship election in 2027 under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The formal declaration took place on Tuesday, November 26, 2025, at the PDP State Secretariat located in Molete, Ibadan. The event drew a massive crowd, including party leaders, representatives from traditional families, various community groups, youth organizations, and enthusiastic supporters from all 33 local government areas of the state.
A Unified Party Front
The declaration was marked by a remarkable show of party unity. In a rare display of organizational cohesion, the entire 39-member Oyo State PDP Executive Committee was present, alongside all 33 Local Government Party Chairmen. Political observers immediately interpreted this full turnout as a powerful early endorsement of Ambassador Ajadi's gubernatorial aspiration.
Following a closed-door meeting with the party's leadership, Ajadi addressed the gathering. He explained that his decision to enter the political race was driven by a profound sense of ancestral duty and a desire to expand the reach of his humanitarian work.
"I am rooted in both Ogun and Oyo States, but my father's land has called me to Oyo," he declared. "The political stalwarts and ancestral families said it is time to bring my humanitarian services home. I am simply honouring the call of my father's land."
From Philanthropy to Public Service
Ambassador Ajadi, who traces his paternal roots to Osegere in Egbeda Local Government, revealed that community leaders had encouraged him to transition his long-standing philanthropic efforts into formal public leadership for Oyo State.
"My people told me that Oyo State needs more of my humanitarian touch than ever before," he stated.
Over the years, Ajadi has built a formidable reputation through his Ajadi Movement, an initiative known for its focus on several key areas:
- Youth empowerment and skills acquisition programmes
- Community and rural development projects
- Advocacy for transparent governance
- Support for vulnerable groups through business grants and welfare
His tangible contributions include funding the rehabilitation of more than twelve major link roads in Ibafo, Ogun State, a project that has significantly improved the lives of thousands of residents and daily commuters. Ajadi stated that his governorship ambition is the next logical step to scale up these impactful programs.
"I am financially ready to continue my good deeds, but governance provides a bigger platform to reach more people. Serving Oyo State is a sacred duty for me," he affirmed.
A Pledge of Continuity and Expansion
When discussing the current administration, Ajadi had generous praise for Governor Seyi Makinde. "Governor Makinde has done exceptionally well in good governance," he commended.
He further outlined that a core part of his manifesto would be to build upon the existing foundation. "Part of my manifesto is to continue where he stops because continuity is sacrosanct. Governance must be consistent if we want positive legacies to endure."
His proposed agenda will concentrate on five main pillars:
- Economic expansion
- Security enhancement
- Youth engagement
- Rural development
- People-centred policies
Addressing the prospect of facing other contenders in the PDP primaries, Ajadi expressed unwavering confidence in his track record. "People will contest, no doubt. But my political antecedents, my compassion, and my sincerity speak for me. The people of Oyo State know genuine commitment when they see it," he asserted.
The PDP State Chairman, Hon. Dayo Ogungbenro, lauded the declaration. "Ambassador Ajadi's declaration reflects true leadership and capacity. He is a man with a proven record of service, and the party welcomes his ambition," he said.
Echoing this sentiment, the Deputy Chairman, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, confirmed that the PDP remains open to all aspirants and guaranteed that the party would organize a fair and credible primary election.
The historic event concluded on a high note, with supporters filling the air with songs, prayers, and chants, heralding Ajadi's declaration as the dawn of a new political era for Oyo State.
