As the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State approaches, the political conversation is gradually shifting from performance reviews of current officeholders to agitations for regional balance, inclusive leadership, and fresh ideas. A growing sentiment—especially outside Ibadan—is that it is time for the governorship to rotate beyond the capital city that has, historically, produced the lion’s share of the state’s leadership. This cry for equity, fairness, and strategic inclusivity is not without merit.
In this unfolding political equation, Dr. Oludare Akande, OON, stands tall as a compelling, unifying, and visionary candidate who embodies the aspirations of a modern, inclusive, and prosperous Oyo State. He is not just another politician; he is an accomplished technocrat, investor, educationist, and bridge-builder whose roots, reach, and relevance span the length and breadth of the state. He was named “2023 Investor of the Year “ by the Sun Newspaper – alongside the giants like Aliko Dangote and Femi Otedola.
A Candidate Beyond Geography
Dr. Akande hails from Wasinmi— Iseyin Local Government Area, part of the Oke-Ogun region of Oyo State. His candidacy answers the persistent and legitimate call for power shift to areas outside Ibadan, which has held the governorship for most of the state’s history. The Oke-Ogun axis, rich in agriculture, culture, and human capital, deserves more than token appointments; it deserves a shot at the topmost leadership seat.
Dr. Akande is not only an Oke-Ogun man, He has well-rounded familiarity with the social-cultural and the nuances of economic development of the three major geo-political zones of Oyo . His story is the Oyo State story: a child of the soil who rose through hard work, educated both in Nigeria and United States of America , and has gone on to establish businesses and institutions that are empowering thousands in Nigeria- Oyo state in particular.
A Technocrat with a Track Record
Dr. Oludare Akande is the founder of American Polytechnic of Nigeria (APN) and The Promoter of America International University of Nigeria, Wasimi, Oyo State.
He is the Chairman of Bellagio Airline Ltd.
Bellagio Airline just secured 50,000 sqm land to construct $80million Maintenance and Repair Organizations (MRO) in Ibadan. This particular project will bring over 2000 employment both direct and indirect to oyo state. His work has earned him national honours, including the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON)- the fourth highest National Honor by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria- a recognition reserved for outstanding individuals whose impact transcends the ordinary and for his contributions to the economy of Nigeria.
His investments in human capital development, youth empowerment, technology, and education are not theoretical campaign promises—they are ongoing realities that continue to uplift communities, especially in underserved areas.
He represents the best of both worlds: a globally connected professional with deep local understanding and empathy. In an age where governance increasingly requires intellect, innovation, and integrity, Dr. Akande stands out as a man prepared for the demands of the future.
A Bridge in a Polarised Era
Oyo State needs a governor who can bridge its diverse constituencies—not just geographically, but ideologically. Someone with the humility to understand grassroots challenges and the intellect to attract global partnerships. Dr. Akande, with his deep local roots and wide global reach, fits that role perfectly.
At a time when the electorate is growing weary of recycled career politicians and clamouring for competent, compassionate technocrats, Dr. Akande offers a clean break from the past. He is a candidate whose emergence could inspire a new era of inclusive development, youth participation, and strategic planning in governance.
A Call to Reason
As we look towards 2027, the people of Oyo State must rise above ethnic and partisan calculations and consider the future of their children, the sustainability of their communities, and the integrity of their collective vision. Dr. Oludare Akande, OON, is not just a candidate from Oke-Ogun; he is the embodiment of the new Oyo dream—where equity meets excellence and where leadership is a tool for transformation.
In Dr. Akande, we find not just a qualified contender, but a bridge—between regions, between generations, and between the past and the future. Oyo State deserves that bridge.
The time is now. The candidate is ready. The choice is clear.
Olufemi A. Adetola writes from Ile Akewe, Ago-Are
