Dear Esteemed Leaders, Distinguished Members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and the Good People of Oyo State,
With a deep sense of purpose, profound gratitude to the Almighty Allah and an unshakeable commitment to our collective progress, I, Ambassador Taofeek Oladejo Arapaja, humbly stand before you to formally declare my interest in seeking the ticket of our great party for the 2027 gubernatorial election in Oyo State.
A Legacy of Loyalty and Service
My journey is not one of sudden ambition, but a lifelong odyssey rooted in over three decades of active political participation and grassroots mobilization. Born into the family of the late Alhaji Oladejo Arapaja of Kudeti, Ibadan South East, I had the privilege of undergoing rigorous political tutelage under our revered mentor, the late High Chief Alhaji Lamidi Ariyibi Adedibu. From him, I learned that true leadership is defined by loyalty to the party and an unwavering connection to the people.
The Vision: Continuity and Consolidation
Since 2019, Oyo State has experienced a paradigm shift in governance under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde. Through the “Omituntun” agenda, our state has witnessed unprecedented strides in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and civil service welfare.
As we approach 2027, the fundamental question is: Who can best protect these gains? Oyo State does not need a newcomer or a political experiment. We need a steady, experienced hand to ensure that the progress started by Governor Makinde is not only sustained but accelerated. I represent that bridge—a bridge between the current successes and a future of even greater prosperity.
A Proven Track Record of Excellence
My resume reflects a unique blend of local governance, legislative experience, international diplomacy, and high-level party administration. I have served at every level of our political fabric:
Local Governance: Two-term Chairman of Ibadan South-East Local Government. I served my first tenure in 1996 under a zero party platform during the military administration. I also served my second tenure under the defunct Democratic Party of Nigeria (DPN) in 1997.
Legislative Competence: Member of the House of Representatives (2003–2007).
Executive Experience: Deputy Governor of Oyo State. I served as the Deputy Governor under the administration of late Governor Adebayo Alao Akala between May 29, 2007 to May 29, 2011.
International Diplomacy: I served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Iran and Jordan concurrently between 2012 to 2015 under the administration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
Party Leadership: I was elected as the National Vice Chairman (South West) of the PDP in the year 2020 and from there to Deputy National Chairman (South), in 2022 and was unanimously elected as the National Secretary of the PDP during the PDP 2025 National Convention held in Ibadan between November 15 and 16, 2025.
This breadth of experience is rare. It has equipped me with the capacity to hit the ground running from day one, understanding both the “heartbeat of the streets” and the “machinery of the state.”
Leadership Rooted in Humility
Governance is about people. Throughout my career, I have remained accessible to our market women, artisans, youths, and elders. I believe in a leadership that listens before it speaks. My candidacy offers the PDP its best chance for victory because it is built on a foundation of trust, character, and a demonstrated ability to unite our party members across all divides.
Our Collective Future
Supporting my candidacy is a commitment to protecting the “Omituntun” legacy. It is a choice for stability over uncertainty and experience over trial-and-error. Together, we can ensure that Oyo State remains a pace-setter in development and a stronghold of the PDP.
I humbly seek your support, your trust, and your mandate. Let us move Oyo forward with the calmness of experience and the strength of character.
Together, let us build a future of opportunity, growth, and shared prosperity.
Thank you, and may God bless Oyo State.
His Excellency,
Ambassador Taofeek Oladejo Arapaja
National Secretary, PDP & Gubernatorial Aspirant, 2027
