Ibadan, the bustling capital of Oyo State, is currently awash with posters of Oriyomi Hamzat, a celebrated Yoruba broadcaster, as the 2027 general elections approach. The posters bear the slogan “2027 Oyo n pe o” alongside a monochrome portrait of Hamzat, hinting at his political ambitions without specifying the position he might seek.
A video shared by a supporter group, and referenced by our correspondent on Wednesday, shows Hamzat at a public gathering, where he was met with enthusiastic calls from the crowd urging him to answer the people’s call. The chants, “Okiki (Hamzat), Oyo is calling you. Answer their call,” reflect the growing demand for his entry into politics.
Responding to critiques about his transition from broadcasting to governance, the ‘Oyo n pe o’ social media page issued a statement highlighting the transferable skills between the two fields. It stated, “The claim that ‘governance is more than speaking into a microphone’ reflects a misunderstanding of leadership. Broadcasting is rooted in communication, empathy, and connection—traits that are fundamental to good governance.”
The statement continued, “Those who reduce Oriyomi Hamzat’s potential to his profession are either misinformed or biased. Leadership is not defined by profession but by vision, courage, and commitment to service. We call on Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat to respond to this clarion call to serve.”
In a separate viral video, Ibadan influencer Funny Thinker addressed Hamzat directly, saying, “He said he won’t rest if we don’t, Okiki, the son of Hamzat, we are calling you, please answer us in 2027.”
Hamzat’s response was succinct yet hopeful: “You will all be alright.”
While the broadcaster has yet to officially declare his political intentions, the widespread poster campaign and public encouragement suggest a growing momentum. Efforts to obtain his comment on the matter were unsuccessful as of this report.
