What began as a simple political trial balloon is rapidly transforming into a formidable gubernatorial campaign. Alhaji Oriyomi Hamsat, the owner of Agidigbo 88.7 FM—one of Ibadan's most beloved radio stations—is intensifying efforts to realize his ambition of becoming the governor by 2027.
Though Hamsat has yet to publicly announce the political party he intends to represent, a dedicated group is fervently working toward the realization of what many perceive as a lofty dream.
Just last week, his station played host to an enthusiastic gathering of fish sellers who came to express their support for Oriyomi’s political aspirations.They pledged their unwavering backing, a gesture that has become increasingly common as various market groups and associations flood his office with messages of solidarity.
The buzz around Hamsat's campaign has been brewing for several months, sparked by eye-catching billboards popping up in strategic locations around the city.
Featuring a shadowy portrait and the powerful slogan “Oyo N Pe O”—translated as “Oyo is Calling You”—these advertisements quickly seized the public’s imagination, spreading like wildfire.
Soon after, the face behind the slogan was revealed as that of Dr. Oriyomi Hamsat. This revelation ignited a whirlwind of discussions about his boldness and political acumen, with many questioning whether he truly had the resolve and capability to pursue such a challenging endeavor.
During a live broadcast on his radio station, a caller from abroad cautioned Hamsat against overestimating his fan base, suggesting that popularity does not guarantee electoral success.
“You won’t win if you contest. Those women and men you have been supporting would not support you,” the caller declared, warning that politics built on financial support might not yield the desired results.
Yet, rather than heed this advice, Hamsat perceived it as an affront to his ambition. He retorted with conviction, affirming that discouraging remarks would not sway his determination.
“Don’t say they will not vote for me. You might even be the one that will push me to contest. I have my own brain,” he emphasized.
“If I contest, nothing will happen. I will contest, and I will win. Don’t tell me that.” Hamsat's passion and belief in his potential have given rise to the Oyo N Pe O 2027 project—a burgeoning movement that has established chapters across various local governments in the state.
Support is pouring in from market vendors, interfaith NGOs, and Hausa/Fulani youth, all rallying behind Hamsat's vision for Oyo.
The grassroots enthusiasm is palpable, with both online and offline communities uniting to amplify his message. A Facebook page created in April to support his movement has rapidly grown to over 23,000 followers, a testament to the increasing traction of his campaign.
Despite the momentum, Hamsat's aspirations have not been without controversy. Critics argue that he should have secured the endorsement of his supposed mentor, Governor Seyi Makinde, before declaring his intentions.
Some perceive his announcement as a challenge to Makinde’s authority, raising the critical question: can Hamsat navigate the political landscape effectively without the backing of established figures in the state?
Even though the broadcaster has consistently shared with anyone willing to listen that his ambition goes beyond the aspirations of a typical politician. He views himself as a visionary leader driven by a commitment to service and love, eager to answer the call to rebuild, renew, and reposition Oyo State.
Oriyomi Hamsat is no stranger to the public eye. His path to prominence took a tumultuous turn in 2017 when he was incarcerated in connection with the death of a 17-year-old boy linked to his NGO, Make A Future Alive Initiative.
After nearly six years of legal battles, he and others were acquitted in 2022, with Hamsat asserting that the charges were a political vendetta aimed at silencing him.
His transformation into a political figure can be traced back to his fervent support for Governor Seyi Makinde during the 2019 elections, a move driven by his desire to combat injustices and advocate for the marginalized.
Hamsat's journey began in Ibadan, where he was born and raised. Following in the footsteps of his father, a journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Hamsat pursued a career in journalism.
He attended Iroko Community Grammar School and later earned his diploma in Geology from The Polytechnic, Ibadan. His studies in Mass Communication further solidified his foundation in media.
Hamsat’s career took off as a print journalist with The Guardian before he ventured into broadcasting with several organizations, including the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria.
Eventually, he founded Agidigbo 88.7 FM, which has emerged as a vital platform for the voiceless in Nigeria. His engaging programs, such as "Kokoro Alate" and "So Kan Wa," have endeared him to grassroots audiences, solidifying his role as an influential figure in Oyo’s socio-political landscape.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, only time will tell how Oriyomi Hamsat's story will unfold in the annals of Oyo State politics.
Credit: City People
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