Popular media personality and broadcaster Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat has opened up about the personal and spiritual motivations behind his decision to seek the governorship of Oyo State in the 2027 elections, saying his move into partisan politics was not taken lightly but was guided by what he described as a divine calling and the will of the people.
Hamzat, known widely across Oyo and the Southwest for his influence in grassroots communication and as the founder of Agidigbo FM, made the remarks in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH on Monday, reflecting on the reaction to his political debut.
In explaining the reasoning behind his decision, Hamzat said he carefully considered advice both for and against his participation in the political contest before ultimately turning the matter over to what he believes was divine guidance.
“The people of Oyo, my lovers, especially my advisers, who warned me against contesting, I thank you all,” Hamzat said. “I sampled the advice of people who encouraged me to contest and those who warned me against it. I tabled it to God, and he approved my contesting.”
He emphasised that he did not dismiss the counsel of critics but arrived at his decision after praying and seeking direction.
“And I don’t want to disobey God because I want to please most of you who warned me against contesting. I believe you all love me; that’s why you are advising me.”
Hamzat told supporters that his drive to contest the governorship stems from a genuine desire to serve the people of Oyo State and a belief that governance must be responsive to ordinary citizens, not driven by wealth, influence, or political patronage.
“I want to serve the people and not be like most of those corrupt politicians. I believe that I will win because the people are for me, and I didn’t buy anyone to be at the event,” he said, asserting confidence in the grassroots zeal that defined his political emergence.
In the interview, Hamzat also addressed earlier scepticism about his chances of winning.
“We have moved on from the point of whether I would be rigged out or lose the election. I am seeking all your support,” he added, signalling his determination to overcome political and structural obstacles.
The 2027 gubernatorial race marks Hamzat’s first foray into politics after many years as a supporter and commentator of political processes, where he often advocated for social justice and accountability through his radio programmes.
Hamzat made his official declaration inside Liberty Stadium in Ibadan, where he announced his intention to run under the banner of the Accord Party, saying he had previously never imagined joining a political party much less contesting for elective office.
“I never imagined I would join a political party or contest an election. I have always been a supporter and cheerleader for aspirants, but God had other plans,” he told PUNCH.
At the rally where he declared his bid, Hamzat stressed that he had no financial backing from political elites or the incumbent government, highlighting instead what he said was the strength of public goodwill and grassroots support.
Political watchers say Hamzat’s entry into the Oyo governorship contest could reshape the state’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 polls, bringing a fresh voice into a contest traditionally dominated by established political figures.
Observers note that his transformation from media figure to gubernatorial aspirant resonates with a growing trend in Nigerian politics where grassroots popularity and civic engagement increasingly influence electoral dynamics.
