Gbolarumi declares for Oyo PDP governorship ticket ahead of 2027

By Adejayan Gbenga –

A former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Hazeem Gbolarumi, has declared his intention to contest the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.

Gbolarumi made the declaration on Monday during an interview with journalists in Ibadan, the state capital, confirming his readiness to vie for the state’s top political office.

The 68-year-old politician said his ambition was driven by a strong passion for public service and his record as a public servant, community leader, and social advocate.

According to him, his lifelong commitment to empowering individuals and transforming communities can be further expanded through the platform of the governorship.

Gbolarumi disclosed that he had formally informed Governor Seyi Makinde of his intention through a letter, assuring that he would build on the achievements of the current administration if elected.

With the declaration, Gbolarumi becomes the first politician to openly announce interest in the 2027 Oyo State governorship race on the PDP platform.

The former deputy governor has been a member and chieftain of the PDP since 2001 and holds a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in International Business and Maritime Law from the United Kingdom, in addition to a law degree from the University of Ibadan.

He has also served as Secretary of the Ibadan Municipal Government and Oyo State Secretary of the Social Democratic Party, while maintaining business interests in farming, construction, and education.