Oke-Ogun Region Demands Oyo Governorship Slot for 2027 Elections
A prominent socio-pressure group in Oyo State has made a strong demand for the 2027 governorship position to be zoned to the Oke-Ogun region, declaring that the deputy governorship slot is no longer acceptable. The group, known as Ẹgbẹ́ Àjọṣepọ̀ Fún Ìtẹsiwájú Gbogbo Wa, insists this move is necessary for justice and fairness in the state's political landscape.
Constitutional Right, Not Sentiment
Speaking exclusively with our correspondent, the national secretary of the group, Pastor Favour Adewoyin, emphasized that Oke-Ogun's agitation for the governorship is neither sentimental nor sectional but a constitutional right. He stated that their motto, 'Gómìnà Òyọ́, Òkèògùn ló kàn,' represents a genuine demand for justice rather than merely being a political slogan.
Adewoyin argued that as critical stakeholders in Oyo State, the people of Oke-Ogun deserve to produce the next governor. "Every region in Oyo state has legitimate stakeholders entitled to lead; leadership is not a privilege reserved for one group but a rotating responsibility," he asserted. The group leader stressed that power must circulate to ensure every region's voice is heard and respected.
Deputy Position No Longer Acceptable
When questioned about whether Oke-Ogun would consider accepting the deputy governorship position again, Adewoyin was unequivocal in his response. "Certainly not, Òkè-Ogùn has produced five Deputy Governors in the past. The position holds no novelty for us anymore," he declared.
He used a powerful local proverb to illustrate their position: "As our people say, 'Igbàkígbà n'ígbá kejì' (the second calabash is of little use). Òkè-Ogùn deserves to lead, not to assist." The group leader warned that any political party considering Oke-Ogun for the deputy position in 2027 is fundamentally misunderstanding the current political climate.
Appeal to Ibadan for Support
Pastor Adewoyin directed a specific appeal to Ibadan, which has dominated Oyo State's political landscape for over two decades. He noted that Ibadan has led for 21 out of the last 26 years, while Ògbómọ̀ṣọ́ had its five years by providence. However, Oke-Ogun, Ọ̀yọ́, and Ìbàràpá have never experienced the privilege of producing a governor.
The group leader clarified that their call for rotation is not an attack on Ibadan's influence but rather a plea for inclusivity and balance. "We are not asking for sympathy; we are demanding justice," Adewoyin emphasized, drawing parallels with other southwestern states that practice rotational leadership.
He pointed out that from Ògún to Ọ̀ṣun, Oǹdó to Èkìtì, and even Lagos and Kwara, power rotates systematically. "Why then should Ọ̀yọ́, the Pace Setter State, be the exception?" he questioned, citing Section 14(3) and (4) of the constitution which supports equitable representation.
No Preferred Candidate, Only Regional Mandate
When asked if the association has a preferred candidate, Pastor Adewoyin clarified that the group functions as a pressure movement rather than a political party. However, he made it clear that Oke-Ogun itself is their candidate for the 2027 governorship race.
He reaffirmed their position strongly: "Our only candidate, for now, is Òkè-Ogùn itself, our region, our pride, our mandate, and our movement. Deputy Governor, Party Chairman, or Speaker positions are no longer acceptable substitutes; anything less will not fly."
The group's demand comes at a time when current Governor Seyi Makinde is positioning himself as a contender for the Peoples Democratic Party's 2027 presidential ticket, following the party's decision to zone the presidency to the southern region. This development adds another layer of complexity to Oyo State's political calculations as different regions jostle for position ahead of the next election cycle.
