Oriyomi Hamzat

  The posters of popular Ibadan-based broadcaster, Hamzat Oriyomi, have flooded the streets of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State in the build-up to the forthcoming 2027 general election. The posters with the tag, “2027 Oyo n pe o”, had a portrait of the veteran Yoruba broadcaster in black colour, raising awareness for his preparation in the anticipated election without an indication of the office he is contesting for. In a video posted by a support group of the broadcaster cited by our correspondent on Wednesday, the founder of Agidigbo FM was seen jeering to the cheers of the masses at the event he attended, where he was constantly being told that the people of the state are calling him and that he has to answer the call. “Okiki (Hamzat), Oyo is calling you. answer their call.” Also, a statement on the official page of the ‘Oyo n pe o’ social media pages addressed criticisms directed at the broadcaster’s transition from media to politics. It read in parts, “The claim that ‘governance is more than speaking into a microphone’ reflects a misunderstanding of leadership. Broadcasting is rooted in communication, empathy, and connection—traits that are fundamental to good governance.” “Those who reduce Oriyomi Hamzat’s potential to his profession are either misinformed or biased. Leadership is not defined by profession but by vision, courage, and commitment to service. “We call on Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat to respond to this clarion call to serve.” https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMSUAUUKa/ In another trending video, a popular Ibadan-based influencer, Funny Thinker, was seen telling Hamzat that the people of Oyo are calling him to answer their call in 2027. “He said he won’t rest if we don’t, Okiki, the son of Hamzat, we are calling you, please answer us in 2027,” Funny Thinker said. https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMSUA9Vk6/ The veteran broadcaster responded, “You will all be alright.” While Hamzat is yet to speak on whether he wants to contest in the much-anticipated election, he has also not debunked the popular mantra pushed for him in preparation for the 2027 poll. However, efforts by our correspondent to speak with him on the posters making rounds proved abortive as he was not reachable for a comment as of the time of filing this report. Punch