Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo on Tuesday formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The declaration, held at the PDP State Secretariat in Molete, Ibadan, attracted party leaders, traditional families, community groups, youth organisations, and supporters from across the 33 local government areas.
Members of the 39-member Oyo State PDP Executive Committee and the 33 Local Government Party Chairmen were also in attendance.
Speaking after a meeting with party leaders, Ajadi said his decision to join the 2027 race was influenced by his family roots and interest in expanding his humanitarian initiatives.
“I am rooted in both Ogun and Oyo States, but my father’s land has called me to Oyo,” he said. He noted that he traces his paternal lineage to Osegere in Egbeda Local Government and explained that community members encouraged him to bring his philanthropic activities more formally into Oyo State.
Ajadi, known for his social interventions through the Ajadi Movement, has focused on youth empowerment, community development, transparent governance, and support for vulnerable groups. His previous initiatives include business grants, medical outreaches, rural development projects, skills acquisition programmes, and welfare support. He recently funded the rehabilitation of several link roads in Ibafo, Ogun State.
He said his governorship ambition aims to scale up these programmes.
“I am financially ready to continue my work, but governance provides a platform to reach more people,” he said.
Ajadi also commended Governor Seyi Makinde, describing his administration as effective and saying continuity would form part of his agenda.
“Part of my manifesto is to continue where he stops because continuity is important,” he said, adding that his focus would include economic development, security, youth engagement, rural development, and people-centred policies.
On the expected competition for the party’s ticket, Ajadi said he remains confident in his record and contribution to communities.
PDP State Chairman, Hon. Dayo Ogungbenro, praised Ajadi for presenting himself for service, while Deputy Chairman, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, reiterated that the PDP remains open to all aspirants.
Party officials assured that the party would conduct a fair and credible primary election, adding that internal unity remains a priority ahead of 2027.
The event ended with songs and prayers from supporters who described the declaration as a significant step for Ajadi’s political aspirations.
TAGS: Ajadi, Oyo Governorship, PDP