A former two-term member of the House of Representatives, Dada Awoleye, has formally declared his intention to run for the Oyo South Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Awoleye, who represented Ibadan North Federal Constituency between 2011 and 2019, is widely regarded as a seasoned grassroots mobiliser with deep political roots across Ibadan North’s ward structures.
Awoleye disclosed his ambition in a statement on Sunday, March 22, describing his relationship with the state governor, Seyi Makinde, as personal and beyond politics.
Awoleye hinted at consolidating on Makinde’s legacy at the senatorial district level and a people-centered agenda.
Recalling his impressive impact while serving at the green chamber of the national Assembly, Awoleye emphasized that his inclusive representation, improved federal presence in Ibadan North federal constituency will be brought to bear in Oyo South.
Awoleye, who is the current chairman of Oyo state Primary Healthcare Board, reaffirmed his commitment to sustained engagement with political leaders, party stalwarts, stakeholders, and grassroots communities across Oyo South Senatorial District.
“I have always believed that leadership must remain close to the people. This next step is about expanding that commitment that has been tested and trusted twice at the House of Representatives to serve at a higher level in order to be able to do even more,” he said.
Investigation revealed that Awoleye’s political trajectory has been marked by consistent engagement at both legislative and administrative levels.
Before his tenure at the National Assembly, he served in the Oyo State House of Assembly, building a reputation for accessibility and constituency-focused representation.
Since leaving the House of Representatives, he has remained active in governance and party politics, including his role within the state’s public service structure.
It was further gathered that his strength lies not only in his electoral experience but also in his established grassroots network, particularly within Ibadan North and adjoining areas that form a critical bloc in the Oyo South Senatorial District.
The Oyo South seat traditionally attracts high-profile contenders, including incumbent lawmakers, former office holders, and emerging political figures seeking to capitalise on shifting voter sentiments.
Awoleye said: “As someone who has won elections twice to the national Assembly and maintained strong ties with the grassroots, I understand the terrain in Abuja better than most people do and that’s what we will capitalize on to draw federal presence to Oyo South Senatorial District in real time”.
Awoleye further described governor Seyi Makinde as the bridge between the old and new political order in Oyo state, which he said was inevitable for political development as politicians continue to evolve through each phase.
