Engineer Rauf Aderemi Olaniyan, a retired permanent secretary and former deputy governor of Oyo State, has formally declared his intention to run for the Oyo State gubernatorial seat in the 2027 general election.
Olaniyan made the declaration at the Oorelope Local Government chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) general meeting held at Baptist High School, Igboho, on June 10, 2025.
He cited the struggles of notable Oke-Ogun sons who have attempted to govern the state without success, attributing their failures to the geography of their birth rather than lack of capacity or credibility. He emphasized the need for balance, equity, and fairness in power sharing and opportunity distribution.
Olaniyan stated that his ambition is driven by a passion for service, social reengineering, development, and prosperity for all in Oyo State.
He expressed his desire to leverage his expertise, professionalism, and experience in human and resource management to position the state for greater heights.
The APC members in attendance welcomed Olaniyan’s declaration with enthusiasm, pledging their support and solidarity.
A motion launching his ambition was moved by Hon. Samuel Okunlade Ododo and seconded by Alhaji Najeem Olakanla Olope.
Olaniyan’s declaration has generated excitement among the people of Oorelope, who believe that their time to produce a governor has come. The development has been met with goodwill messages and prayers from party members and stakeholders.
The meeting was attended by notable APC members, including the Oyo State APC legal adviser, Barr. Deji Mohammed, former local government chairmen, and other party executives.
