Popular Oyo State-based broadcaster, Oriyomi Hamzat, has explained the reasons behind his decision to contest the 2027 governorship election in the state.
Hamzat said his decision followed what he described as divine approval, adding that he carefully considered the advice of those who supported and opposed his ambition before making up his mind.
The broadcaster, who recently declared his interest under the Accord Party, spoke during one of his programmes on Agidigbo FM on Monday, where he thanked supporters who attended his rally at the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan, on Saturday.
While reacting to criticisms and warnings from some advisers, Hamzat said he did not dismiss their concerns but believed he was convinced by God to run.
“The people of Oyo, my lovers, especially my advisers who warned me against contesting, I thank you all. I listened to those who encouraged me and those who warned me. I took everything to God, and He approved my contesting,” he said.
“I don’t want to disobey God because I want to please people. I know you advised me out of love. If I have offended anyone with this decision, I ask for forgiveness and your support now that I have declared my interest.”
Hamzat said his desire to contest was driven by a willingness to serve the people sincerely, unlike what he described as corrupt political practices.
“I want to serve the people and not be like most corrupt politicians. I believe I will win because the people are with me. I did not pay anyone to attend the rally,” he added.
He also dismissed fears that he could be rigged out or lose the election, saying he had moved past such concerns.
“We have moved on from the fear of whether I will lose or be rigged out. I am asking for your support,” he said.
Hamzat officially declared his ambition on Saturday during a rally in Ibadan, where he described his decision as a response to a divine calling.
He said he never planned to join partisan politics, noting that his previous political involvement was limited to supporting others.
“Today, I am publicly declaring my intention to join Accord as my political platform and to contest the Oyo governorship election in 2027,” he said.
The broadcaster also stressed that his ambition was not backed by wealth, political influence or the support of the government in power.
“I don’t have money or political connections, and I don’t have the backing of the government of the day. I have come with God, and that is all I need,” he added.
