Provost, Dr. Ademola Rauf Salami

25/07/2025

In a powerful display of unity and purpose, notable sons and daughters of Oke-Ogun region have once again emphasized the need for equity and fairness in Oyo State politics, as they call on traditional rulers and stakeholders to support an Oke-Ogun candidate for the 2027 governorship election.

The call came during a grand reception organized in honor of Dr. Ademola Raufu Salami, Provost of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo — an indigene of Saki. The event was put together by the Oke-Ogun Indigenes Staff Forum of the College.

Speaking at the event, Col. Emmanuel Adegbola (Rtd) lamented the decades of political marginalization the Oke-Ogun zone has endured, despite its consistent loyalty and contribution to the state. He encouraged indigenes to unite, stand firm, and insist on full representation at the highest level of state governance. According to him, “It is time we stop celebrating crumbs. The Deputy Governor position is not the prize — we must push for the top seat.”

In a similar tone, former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Rauf Olaniyan, challenged Oke-Ogun residents to take political participation seriously by registering massively as voters and getting involved in the democratic process. He made reference to the lopsided voter registration figures, with over 1.7 million voters registered in Ibadan alone, while other zones lag behind.

Also present was the Onigbeti of Igbeti, Oba Engr. Abioye Bashir Siyanbola, who charged politicians and elites from Oke-Ogun to invest their resources within the region. “You cannot expect your land to grow if you keep sowing your seeds elsewhere,” he said.

Chairman of the Staff Forum, Comrade Akinniyi Akinleye, described Dr. Salami as a pride to Oke-Ogun, listing some of his remarkable achievements since assuming office — including the renovation and construction of several structures, acquisition of vehicles and motorcycles for the institution, and the successful accreditation of all academic programs.

In his response, Dr. Salami expressed deep appreciation for the recognition and pledged to continue serving with excellence and integrity, promising even greater impact as his tenure progresses.

This renewed call for power shift resonates deeply within the Oke-Ogun region, where many believe that the time has come for their voices to be heard loud and clear in the leadership of Oyo State.

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