IBADAN, Nigeria — In a major move to reshape the 2027 political map, a prominent socio-cultural organization has called on the leadership of the APC to zone its governorship ticket to the Oke-Ogun region.
In a statement signed on Thursday, January 8, 2026, by National Chairman Mr. Dauda Olaifa and Secretary Pastor Favour Adewoyin, the group argued that after decades of being the “electoral engine room” for various parties, the zone must now be allowed to lead the state.
The Case for Oke-Ogun
The group’s demand is anchored on the principles of fairness, equity, and inclusiveness, referencing the Federal Character principle of the 1999 Constitution.
- Rotation History: Since the return to democracy in 1999, the governorship has rotated primarily between Ibadan (Oyo Central/South) and Ogbomoso (Oyo North). Oke-Ogun, which comprises 10 out of the 33 LGAs in the state, has yet to produce a governor.
- Qualified Candidates: The group noted that the zone is not lacking in talent, citing a deep pool of potential aspirants including:
- Former Deputy Governors with executive experience.
- Ex-Ministers and seasoned technocrats.
- High-ranking lawmakers within the current APC structure.
- The “One-Way” Support: “As indigenes of Oke-Ogun, we believe the time has come… 2027 should mark Oke-Ogun’s turn,” the statement read.
The Unity Rally: A Strategic Backdrop
The call comes as the APC concludes its Unity Tour across the three senatorial districts. The rallies in Kisi and Saki saw a massive turnout, which the party leadership described as a sign of the APC’s readiness to reclaim the state from the PDP in 2027.
While the group participated in these rallies, they clarified their non-partisan status, stating they are an advocacy platform engaging all parties—including the PDP, ADC, and Accord—to ensure an Oke-Ogun indigene emerges on at least one major party ticket.
Support for Tinubu’s Second Term
The group reaffirmed its total support for President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, noting that Oke-Ogun’s demand for the governorship is a local plea for justice that aligns with the President’s vision for equitable development.
