Former Minister of Communication and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Barrister Adebayo Shittu, has reaffirmed his ambition to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, saying the time has come for the Oke Ogun zone to produce the state’s number one citizen.
Shittu, who made this known in an exclusive interview with PUNCH Newspaper, emphasized that his long-standing commitment to the APC and his track record in public service make him well-positioned to offer credible leadership to the state.
He lamented that Oke Ogun, despite being one of the most populous and economically strategic regions in Oyo State, has never had the opportunity to produce a governor. He described this as a political injustice that must be corrected for the sake of equity and inclusive governance.
“It’s unfortunate that since the creation of Oyo State in 1976, Oke Ogun has never produced a governor, even though we are about ten local governments and rich in agricultural potential. This marginalization has to stop,” Shittu stated.
The former minister expressed confidence in his chances, citing his experience as a former member of the Oyo State House of Assembly and federal cabinet minister, as well as his commitment to grassroots politics.
Shittu, who was disqualified from the APC governorship primary in 2019, said he is undeterred and more prepared than ever to seek the party’s ticket ahead of the 2027 polls. He appealed to the leadership of the APC and the people of Oyo State to consider Oke Ogun’s unique position and contributions to the state’s development.
Political analysts note that Oke Ogun’s strategic location and electoral strength make it a key battleground in Oyo politics. With ten of the state’s 33 local governments, the region plays a vital role in determining who emerges as governor, especially when supported by votes from other zones.
