A prominent sociopolitical group, the Oyo Heritage Assembly, has joined the growing chorus demanding that the governorship seat in 2027 be zoned out of Ibadan, specifically to Oyo Federal Constituency, comprising Afijio, Atiba, Oyo East, and Oyo West local governments.
In a strongly worded statement jointly signed by Chief Sunday Elegbede and Hon. Daud Temitope.ade available to Westernmirror.com.ng on Saturday,June 21, the group insisted that it is both fair and imperative for the next governor to emerge from the Oyo Zone.
Justifying it’s stance, the group cited historical neglect despite the area’s massive contributions to the state’s economic, political, and cultural landscape.
According to the Oyo Heritage Assembly, Oyo Zone has played a critical role in shaping Oyo State’s identity but has been consistently sidelined in the power-sharing structure.
“Oyo Federal Constituency remains one of the most strategically important blocs in the state. It is high time the zone is given the opportunity to lead and contribute more directly to governance at the highest level,” the statement reads.
The group outlined several reasons for its demand which include demographic significance saying: “Oyo Zone is one of the most populous in the state, with a high number of registered voters and a robust civic presence.
“With fertile agricultural land, thriving markets, and a strong base of small and medium enterprises, the zone is a key driver of Oyo State’s economy.
” Also, as the cradle of the ancient Oyo empire, the zone hosts historic sites and cultural institutions that are vital to Nigeria’s national heritage.
“And Oyo zone has produced respected figures in politics, education, and industry, demonstrating its readiness to provide credible leadership,” the statement added.
The Assembly argued that rotating the governorship to Oyo Zone would promote equity and unlock a new era of development and inclusivity.
“This is not just a political call, it is a strategic imperative for the sustainable development of our dear state,” said Chief Elegbede.
They maintained that such a move would also strengthen unity across the three senatorial zones and reflect a true sense of fairness and justice.
The Oyo Heritage Assembly called on all political stakeholders, traditional rulers, and youth leaders to rally behind the movement for an Oyo Zone governorship in 2027 stressing that this would not only right historical wrongs but also create a balanced platform for progress.
“We believe that this is an opportunity for Oyo Zone to take its rightful place in the state’s leadership landscape,” the statement concluded.