As Oyo State gradually moves toward the 2027 governorship election, the political atmosphere is becoming clearer, louder, and more consequential. Across Ibadan, Oke-Ogun, Ogbomoso, Ibarapa, and Oyo zones, conversations are shifting from speculation to substance. The central question is no longer who wants to govern, but who is truly prepared to lead Oyo State forward.
The era when ambition alone could qualify anyone for leadership is steadily fading. Today’s Oyo electorate is more politically conscious, more demanding, and less tolerant of governance by improvisation. Citizens now seek leadership rooted in experience, empathy, and verifiable service, not political entitlement or recycled rhetoric.
Against this backdrop, Hon. Bolanle Aminat Sarumi–Aliyu (BASA) has emerged as a defining voice in the unfolding Oyo 2027 conversation.
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BASA’s political journey reflects consistency rather than convenience. As a former Governorship Candidate, grassroots mobiliser, and former Senior Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Diaspora Matters, she has demonstrated a working understanding of governance, policy engagement, and people-centred leadership. Her public service has been marked by accessibility, advocacy, and deliberate action.
Beyond politics, her humanitarian footprint through the BASA Foundation speaks volumes. Through education support, health outreach, and economic empowerment initiatives, BASA has touched lives across communities—particularly women, youths, and the underprivileged. These efforts were not election-driven gestures but sustained interventions anchored in social responsibility.
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What sets BASA apart in the current political landscape is her deep grassroots connection. Known for door-to-door mobilisation, market sensitisation, and direct community engagement, she understands that leadership in Oyo State must be inclusive and participatory. In a state defined by diversity, such proximity to the people is a strength, not a weakness.
Oyo State today requires more than administrative skill. It needs a governor with the capacity to manage complexity, the compassion to govern inclusively, and the courage to make people-centred decisions even when they are difficult. It requires leadership that listens, learns, and leads with clarity of purpose.
As more aspirants signal interest ahead of 2027, the electorate is increasingly focused on records over rhetoric. The people are examining consistency, values, and readiness. Political noise is gradually giving way to serious evaluation.
Hon. Bolanle Aminat Sarumi–Aliyu enters this race not as a stranger, but as a familiar figure whose aspiration reflects preparation rather than desperation. Her emergence aligns with a growing public desire for leadership that is responsive, inclusive, and development-driven.
As Oyo State stands at this critical juncture, one truth is becoming increasingly evident: the future belongs to leaders who have walked with the people, not just spoken to them.
Segun Oluwapamilerin AKINLABI, CEO Egalitarian Voice and Services Ltd | Statistician| Political Analyst and Grassroots Advocate
Writes from Ibadan, Oyo State
February 10, 2026.
