By Salam Saheed
The governorship candidate of the Accord in Oyo State, Mr. Oriyomi Hamzat, has declared that he remains the authentic standard-bearer of the party ahead of the 2027 governorship election, expressing confidence that his growing acceptance across the state, particularly in Oke-Ogun, would translate into electoral victory.
Hamzat spoke during a consultation visit to the Oke-Ogun zone, where he said the tour was aimed at engaging party supporters, consulting stakeholders and reassuring residents that he remains committed to the ideals that have endeared him to many Nigerians.
According to him, the visit was also an opportunity to demonstrate that he has not changed despite his political ambition, promising not to emulate politicians who make campaign promises only to abandon them after assuming office.
“I came to Oke-Ogun to consult my people, greet them and reassure them that I remain the same person—focused, determined and committed to the masses. I will not change my ways like politicians who make promises they never fulfil,” he said.
Responding to questions on what he would do differently if elected governor, Hamzat described the visit as an opportunity to gauge public support, saying he was encouraged by the warm reception he received across the Oke-Ogun axis.
He noted that while some people believed his popularity was confined to Ibadan, the consultation tour had convinced him that he enjoys widespread acceptance in Oke-Ogun, adding that he remains a formidable contender in the 2027 governorship race.
On the leadership dispute within the Accord, Hamzat insisted that he is the only legitimate governorship candidate of the party. He explained that the individual laying a rival claim had already approached the court for legal redress, an indication, according to him, that the matter was no longer a political contest.
Asked about his confidence in winning the election, Hamzat said ultimate power belongs to God but expressed optimism that the people of Oyo State would entrust him with the mandate because, according to him, “the mandate belongs to the people.”
He said his administration would be guided by a people-oriented manifesto focused on addressing the challenges confronting the state, stressing that his programmes were designed to improve the welfare of ordinary citizens.
On strategies for mobilising voters, Hamzat urged the electorate to remain vigilant and protect their votes, saying the people must ensure that no one tampers with their democratic mandate.
Speaking on party unity, he pledged to reconcile all aggrieved members and work with other genuine aspirants in the interest of strengthening the Accord ahead of the election.
Commenting on the contest to succeed Governor Seyi Makinde, Hamzat noted that the incumbent governor would not be seeking a third term and expressed confidence that the electorate was ready to support a new leadership.
On the choice of a running mate, Hamzat said political decisions would be guided by prevailing circumstances and strategic considerations, dismissing comparisons with other political parties whose deputy governorship candidates emerged from the Ogbomoso axis.
He also called on all political parties to conduct issue-based campaigns, urging politicians to refrain from smear campaigns, violence and character assassination.
According to him, candidates should present their programmes and policies to the electorate and allow the people to freely decide who governs them.