Again, as Oyo and its people inches closer to the 2027 governorship election, an unexpected name has started making strong waves in political scene, Oriyomi Abdulrahman Hamzat. For an “innocent” man who has never held political office or formally aligned with any party, his sudden emergence in the race is as surprising as it is intriguing. Famous as a broadcast journalist, unapologetic human rights activist, philanthropist, and the founder of Agidigbo 88.7 FM, Hamzat’s name had never been in the political permutations, until now. With “his” billboards bearing the message “Oyo ’n Pe O” (Oyo is Calling You) popping up across Ibadan major roads, what commenced as a small whisper has now become a serious and considerable conversation. However, the question remains, can an “innocent” man known for speaking truth to power and societal ills now become the one wielding that power?
Born and raised in the city of Ibadan, Oriyomi Hamzat inherited the spirit of journalism from his father, Asimiyu Adekunle Hamzat, a former NTA reporter. He started his career in the newsroom of The Guardian before moving across major broadcast houses like BCOS, FRCN, Raypower, Petals FM and 32 FM. However, it was with the establishment of Agidigbo FM that he truly became that predicted phenomenon. Through his fearless radio programs and investigative storytelling, he created a niche as the voice of the oppressed people. Yes, one defining moment came during the Timothy Adegoke case, where Hamzat’s persistent coverage helped push for proper justice in a system designed to delay it.
Educationally, he earned a Diploma in Geology, later pursued a course in Mass Communication at Eruwa, and finally, in 2023, bagged a BA in Linguistics and Language Arts from the University of Ibadan. True, these may not be elite Ivy League degrees, but his obvious achievements in media and social activism demonstrate intellectual depth, strategic thinking, and relentless commitment to expected community development.
His popular radio program, Kokoro Alate, aired on Wednesdays and Fridays, has become a cultural touchstone across the Southwest, drawing over 300,000 regular listeners. Through it, Hamzat connects with the grassroots, providing not just “entertainment”, but solutions to problems community leaders cannot solve. From paying medical bills, funding DNAs to settling family irreconcilable disputes, he has functioned as a kind of unofficial local government for the people. His charity foundation, which supports orphans and less-privileged families, and his regular gifting of cars and houses to his staff, paint the picture of a man who doesn’t just talk empathy, he lives it.
This is what makes his possible candidacy compelling. He’s not just that product of zoning formulas or elite anointing. His political capital was built on radio influence, compassion, and consistency. He represents that rare opportunity, a popular candidate without the baggage of patronage or party fealty.
However, therein lies the dilemma. Governance is a different ballgame. Running a radio station, no matter how influential, is not the same as running a state. Critics argue that Hamzat’s emotional leadership style, while inspiring, may not be enough to get through the ruthlessness of Nigerian politics. Politics requires more than popular empathy, it demands compromise, bureaucratic management, and the ability to make unpopular but necessary decisions.
True, Oriyomi Hamzat has no known experience in governance, no local government role, no commissioner appointment, no legislative or executive background. This raises fundamental concerns, How would he manage budget planning? Expected Civil service reform? Necessary State security? Education infrastructure? While his media platform has done more than some government agencies, transforming moral capital into administrative competence is not automatic. Yes, his media influence, though powerful, could also become a double-edged sword. If he becomes governor, any editorial stance by Agidigbo FM could be construed as a propaganda, undermining its current credibility. Already, critics worry that his station may be weaponized for political gain.
Then there’s the geography of power. While Hamzat is a towering figure in Ibadan and even Oyo State, yet, his appeal in other zones, like Ogbomoso, Ibarapa, and Oke-Ogun remains uncertain. With clamours for power rotation, his Ibadan background could spark the expected resistance in regions that feel marginalized. Additionally, he presently lacks the ward-by-ward political structure that fuels Nigerian elections. Elections aren’t won by radio shows or fan based alone; they are won by delegates, coordinators, loyalists, and polling agents. These are gaps he must quickly address if he is serious with this. And although he’s reputed to be financially comfortable, owning media and real estate assets, politics, especially gubernatorial races requires necessary funding. He must be ready to match the war chests of the political class, even while still maintaining his image as a man of the people.
Yes, at the core of Oriyomi Hamzat’s strength is his deep emotional connection to the masses. He doesn’t just report problems, he solves them. He’s paid hospital bills, helped secure justice, funded scholarships, and intervened in cases where the government was absent. His ability to listen to people’s pain and respond with action has created a bond of trust that no political campaign can easily manufacture.
His mastery of the media space is unmatched in Oyo State. With Agidigbo FM, he doesn’t just control the narrative, he is the narrative. In a digital era where storytelling wins votes, Hamzat’s communication prowess could power a movement. He’s not just known; he’s beloved. He has shaped public opinion for years, and many listeners and fans see him as a friend, a brother, and a helper. Moreover, his regular philanthropic work has bought him goodwill that even the most expensive PR firm couldn’t replicate. People trust that his heart is in the right place. And without political godfathers or the stain of past corruption, he emerges as a clean, independent option for voters tired of the usual and recycled suspects.
What does he needs to do If he’s serious? If Oriyomi Hamzat genuinely intends to run for governor, he must act decisively. First, he needs to openly declare his ambition. Ambiguity may have helped stir conversation, but delay could kill momentum. A bold, visionary announcement would consolidate support and silence detractors. Next, he must urgently build a solid political structure. Whether he chooses the PDP, APC, Labour Party, or even a fresh coalition, he needs ward coordinators, polling unit agents, media handlers, and foot soldiers across all LGAs. Interestingly, any party lacking a credible frontrunner could benefit massively from adopting him. Even if he doesn’t win, he could significantly increase their popularity and votes.
Even more, he must also assemble a strong policy and technical team. This team should help him craft a solid manifesto and prepare for the rigors of office. Voters need to know he has a plan, not just emotions to lead the state. Again, to extend his reach, he must tour other regions, pay homage to traditional rulers, engage youth and religious leaders in Oke-Ogun, Ogbomoso, and Ibarapa. Statewide relevance is key.
True, funding will be essential. Crowdfunding, small donor campaigns, and transparent financing can set him apart from the usual godfather politics and demonstrate clean intentions. Most importantly, he needs to change the narrative. He must stop being described as “a broadcaster trying to be a governor” and instead own the identity of a people’s advocate transitioning into formal public service. For years, he’s done what governments should be doing. Now, he must convince the public that he can do it on a larger scale. And finally, he must engage experienced politicians, local influencers, and party leaders, who can guide him through the terrain. Pure activism isn’t enough. Political backing will be necessary to survive the storm.
Yes, It still feels a bit surreal to imagine Oriyomi Hamzat on the ballot. For years, he was the man calling governments to account, not aspiring to lead one. But here we are. And whether you love or doubt him, his name now sits firmly in the 2027 conversation. Oriyomi Hamzat represents an unusual but fascinating blend of media influence, grassroots empathy, and moral authority. The question now is, can that translate into executive leadership? Can his compassion scale to a budget? Can his voice become a vision?
Oyo is indeed calling. But can Oriyomi answer with more than a microphone. That’s the 2027 question.
Ogungbile Emmanuel Oludotun writes for Oyo Affairs
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