By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Ibadan — A leading governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has urged residents of the state to remain steadfast and hopeful, assuring them that good governance will be sustained beyond 2027 with the emergence of a PDP governor.
Ajadi gave the assurance on Tuesday while addressing members of transport unions operating under the Park Management System (PMS) at their headquarters in New Garage, Ibadan. The meeting brought together park managers and commercial drivers from across the state.
Speaking before a large gathering, Ajadi emphasized the need for unity, peace, and mutual understanding among transport operators, describing them as critical stakeholders in the socio-economic life of Oyo State. He urged them to resist division and external interference capable of destabilising the system.
“My advice to the park managers and commercial drivers in Oyo State is simple,” Ajadi said. “Continue to live in love and peace with one another. Remain united and focused. Do not allow anyone to deceive you or cause disunity among you. This unity you have built is your strength.”
He expressed confidence in his party’s chances in the next general election, declaring that the PDP remains firmly rooted among the people. “Let me assure you that the PDP will produce the next governor of Oyo State in 2027. The people know where progress and continuity of good governance lie,” he stated.
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Ajadi explained that his visit to the PMS headquarters was part of his grassroots consultation ahead of the 2027 governorship race. According to him, engaging directly with transport workers was essential, given their influence and daily interaction with the masses.
“Today, I came to meet my people—the park managers and transporters—to familiarize myself with them and formally inform them of my intention to serve the people of Oyo State as governor by the grace of God,” he said.
Outlining his vision for the transport sector, Ajadi said one of his priorities would be to modernize the state’s transportation system. He disclosed plans to redesign and standardize city cabs in collaboration with the Park Management System to improve safety, aesthetics, and public confidence.
“Our transport system must reflect the pride and dignity of Oyo State,” Ajadi said. “We want to change the look of city cabs and ensure they meet acceptable standards, and this will be done hand-in-hand with the PMS.”
He also promised to expand the state’s mass transit scheme, revealing plans to deploy more buses across all zones of Oyo State. According to him, the initiative would ease transportation challenges, reduce fares, and create more employment opportunities.
“The mass transit buses will not be limited to a few areas,” he added. “They will be available across the state and operated in partnership with park managers to ensure efficiency, accountability, and sustainability.”
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Ajadi commended Governor Seyi Makinde for establishing modern bus terminals in different parts of the state, noting that the facilities were a step in the right direction. He, however, assured that his administration would ensure optimal utilisation of such infrastructure.
“Our focus will be on maximizing these investments so that the people truly feel their impact,” he said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Oyo State Park Management System, Tomiwa Omolewa, described Ajadi as a long-standing supporter of transport workers and a consistent contributor to the development of the sector.
“Ambassador Ajadi is not new to us,” Omolewa said. “Over the years, he has supported initiatives that have improved the transport system in Oyo State. He understands our challenges and has always shown genuine concern for our welfare.”
Omolewa assured Ajadi of the cooperation of PMS members across the state, stressing that transport workers would continue to support policies and leaders committed to peace, progress, and inclusive development.
The meeting ended with goodwill messages, interactive discussions, and renewed calls for unity among transport unions, as stakeholders reiterated their commitment to sustaining peace within the state’s transport system ahead of the 2027 elections.
