Ex-commissioner of police, Owoseni, joins Oyo gov race under Accord Party

The political landscape of Oyo State is set to witness a significant shift with the entry of retired Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, into the governorship race under the Accord Party. Owoseni's decision to contest the 2027 election, after recently resigning from his security advisory roles in Governor Seyi Makinde's administration, signals a new chapter in his distinguished career of public service.

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This state can be self-sustaining; I am telling you that. Life can be better for our people. That is why I keep talking about the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

Owoseni's vision for Oyo State is deeply rooted in its historical achievements, particularly the era of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, when the Western Region was a beacon of development. He articulates a clear ambition to return the state to its "glorious days," emphasizing self-sustainability and enhanced welfare for its residents. His focus on improving public education to rival private institutions and ensuring continuity in developmental strides reflects a pragmatic approach to governance.

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During the era of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the Western Region was paying more than every other region. Who says we cannot still uplift the lives of our civil servants? Who says private schools cannot become a matter of choice if we upgrade our public schools?

Drawing from his 35 years in the police force and subsequent years in retirement, Owoseni frames his political aspirations as a continuation of his "service to humanity." He dismisses the notion that politics is inherently "dirty," arguing instead that individuals should strive to positively impact their environment rather than be corrupted by it. This perspective suggests a desire to bring integrity and a problem-solving ethos to the political arena, a stark contrast to the often-cynical views of politics prevalent in Nigeria.

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To me, I keep saying that my decision to join politics is being driven by the need for value addition and continuous service to humanity.

For Oyo State, Owoseni's candidacy represents a potential blend of security expertise and a commitment to development. His call for Nigerians in the diaspora to return and contribute further highlights a broader vision for the state's resurgence. As The Punch reports, Owoseni's journey from law enforcement to the governorship race is a narrative of dedicated service, aiming to add value and foster growth in his home state.

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Everybody says, ‘You don’t even look like a politician. Can you do politics?’ It is not as if politics is dirty. Some people in politics are dirty, and they make it look as if politics itself is dirty.