Ibadan, Oyo State — Former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Hazeem Gbolarumi, has emerged as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for the 2027 general election after a landslide victory in the party’s primary election.
Announcing the results, Chairman of the PDP Governorship Primary Election Committee, Hon. Tolulope Awoniyi, said Gbolarumi polled 3,615 votes, defeating his only challenger, Barrister Beulah Adeoye, who secured 22 votes.
> “By the powers conferred on me… I hereby declare Barrister Hazeem Gbolarumi as the winner, having scored the highest number of votes cast,” Awoniyi stated.
The primary election was conducted across the 33 local government areas and over 300 wards in Oyo State, with 3,640 delegates accredited out of 3,694 registered voters. The exercise was held under tight security and monitored by party stakeholders and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Orderly Primary Exercise
The collation of results took place at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Ibadan in the presence of INEC officials led by Engr. Olugbenga Keshinro, alongside security agencies and party members.
Awoniyi noted that the process was peaceful, transparent, and largely hitch-free, adding that no formal petitions or objections were recorded during the exercise.
He said the committee engaged aspirants and stakeholders before voting to ensure unity and fairness.
> “The PDP remains one family, and we ensured a level playing field for all contestants,” he added.
Party Commends Process
Also speaking, the Oyo State PDP Chairman, Prof. Abdulrahman Akinoso, commended party members for their orderly conduct, describing the primary as a reflection of the party’s commitment to internal democracy.
Gbolarumi Pledges Victory in 2027
In his acceptance speech, Gbolarumi thanked delegates and party leaders for their support, promising to unite the party ahead of the 2027 election.
> “This victory is not for me alone but for every genuine member of the PDP who desires progress, fairness, and inclusiveness,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the PDP would return to power in the state, declaring that the party is well-positioned to deliver effective leadership.
Gbolarumi also called for reconciliation within party ranks, urging aggrieved members to close ranks and work together in the interest of victory at the polls.
