Hazeem Gbolarumi declares PDP governorship bid for Oyo State 2027, citing passion for public service and community development

former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, in Ibadan formally declared his intention to contest the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship ticket for the 2027 election, becoming the first politician to openly enter the race in the state.

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Gbolarumi, 68, who has been a PDP chieftain since 2001, cited a longstanding commitment to public service and community development as the driving force behind his ambition.

The former deputy governor highlighted his record as a public servant, community leader, and social crusader.

“My ambition is fuelled by passion for public service and a desire to expand my impact on communities across Oyo State,” Gbolarumi told journalists.

“The office of governor provides a platform to empower individuals and transform communities on a larger scale.”

He confirmed that he had formally notified Governor Seyi Makinde of his intentions through a written communication and pledged to build on the governor’s achievements if elected.

Gbolarumi holds an LLM in International Business and Marine Law from the United Kingdom and earned his law degree from the University of Ibadan in 2014.

His political experience spans decades, beginning with his role as Secretary of the Ibadan Municipal Government in 1991 and later as Oyo State Secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1993.

In addition to politics, Gbolarumi is an entrepreneur with interests in farming, construction, and procurement, and is the proprietor of the proposed Ibadan Metropolitan University.

Known as a grassroots mobiliser, philanthropist, and bold politician, he has long contributed to social initiatives across the state.

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Political observers note that Gbolarumi’s early declaration may set the tone for the PDP primaries in Oyo State, positioning him as a prominent contender for the 2027 governorship race.