OYO 2027: LAWMAKER REVEALS REASON FOR GOVERNORSHIP AMBITION

By: Balogun Ibrahim
An aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Adedeji Olajide, popularly known as Odidiomo, has said his ambition to become governor in 2027 is driven by a desire to serve the people.
Olajide made the disclosure while hosting a delegation of journalists led by the Oyo State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akeem Abas, at his residence in Ibadan on Sunday evening.
The lawmaker, who currently chairs the House of Representatives Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity, noted that the governorship is a responsibility that must be earned through competence and dedication, rather than a right.
He added that his long-standing loyalty to the state and consistent political track record position him as a credible candidate for the office.
Olajide said he has remained consistent and loyal to Oyo State, noting that he has never defected from his party and has always prioritised public service over personal interest. He also pointed out that his background as a trained computer science expert would give him an advantage in promoting innovation and modern governance in the state.
He added that the developmental agenda being pursued by the current administration under Governor Seyi Makinde should be sustained and further improved for the benefit of residents.
According to him, continuity in governance would ensure the completion of ongoing projects and help maintain the state’s trajectory of growth and stability.
On security, the aspirant said strengthening the state’s security architecture would be a top priority under his administration, adding that efforts toward state policing must be advanced to ensure a more coordinated and effective response to security challenges.
Olajide also pledged to build on the achievements of the Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Amotekun, by improving its operations and expanding its capacity.
In the education sector, he promised to uphold globally recognised standards, including UNESCO benchmarks, to guarantee quality learning across the state, stressing that education remains a critical driver of development.
On economic development, Olajide said his administration would create investment opportunities through agribusiness while sustaining existing initiatives in the sector.
He disclosed plans to establish multiple free trade zones across the state to attract investors and boost internally generated revenue.
The PDP aspirant also assured that small and medium-scale enterprises would receive support to thrive, thereby creating jobs and improving livelihoods.
Additionally, he outlined plans to digitise the state’s economy, with a vision to position Ibadan as a major digital hub in the South-West region.
Olajide, who represents the Ibadan North-West and Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, said his experience at the National Assembly has equipped him for higher responsibilities.
He added that, as Chairman of the House Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, he has facilitated the establishment of Community ICT Centres across the state.
