In a move that signals the unofficial start of the race for the Oyo State Government House in 2027, a former deputy governor of the state, Barrister Hazeem Gbolarumi, has formally announced his intention to contest for the governorship ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Gbolarumi Fires Starting Gun for 2027 Contest
Gbolarumi made his declaration during an interaction with journalists in Ibadan, the state capital, on 23 December 2025. He becomes the first aspirant to openly signal interest in the race, effectively firing the starting gun for what political observers expect to be a keenly contested primary within the ruling party in the state.
The former deputy governor, who served from 2003 to 2006, stated that his decision is driven by a deep passion for public service and a long-standing commitment to community development. A chieftain of the PDP since 2000, Gbolarumi said his extensive experience as a public servant, grassroots politician, and social crusader has adequately prepared him to lead Oyo State.
"I have dedicated my life to empowering individuals and transforming communities," Gbolarumi said. "I believe the governorship offers a wider opportunity to consolidate these efforts and deliver purposeful leadership to the people of Oyo State."
Ambition Built on Continuity, Not Hostility
In a significant disclosure, Gbolarumi revealed that he has already formally notified the incumbent Governor, Seyi Makinde, of his ambition through a letter. He was careful to stress that his aspiration is not born out of hostility but from a desire to build upon the developmental strides of the current administration.
He assured party members and stakeholders of his unwavering loyalty to the PDP and expressed his readiness to collaborate with all factions and tendencies within the party. This move is seen as an early attempt to foster unity and avoid divisive politics ahead of the crucial primaries.
A Profile of Resilience and Grassroots Connection
Gbolarumi's political career is marked by resilience and deep grassroots connections. His political journey includes:
- Secretary of the Ibadan Municipal Government in 1991.
- Oyo State Secretary of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1993.
- Personal Assistant to the late Ibadan political strongman, Chief Lamidi Adedibu.
Beyond politics, Gbolarumi's commitment to self-development is notable. After leaving office in 2006, he enrolled at the University of Ibadan in 2009 to study Law, graduating in 2014. He later obtained a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in International Business and Marine Law from a university in the United Kingdom.
An entrepreneur with interests in farming, construction, and procurement, he is also the proprietor of the proposed Ibadan Metropolitan University. He is widely known for his philanthropic activities, regularly supporting vulnerable groups across Oyo State.
Described by associates as bold and fearless, Gbolarumi frames his ambition as a response to a call to service and a commitment to inclusive governance. His declaration sets the stage for the political permutations and alignments that will shape the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.
