Oyo 2027: Is the Deputy Governor Slot Heading to Ogbomoso as Open Salawu’s Influence Grows?
As political conversations ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum in Oyo State, one question is beginning to dominate discussions across political circles, social gatherings, and social media platforms: Will the Oyo State Deputy Governor slot go to Ogbomoso?
At the center of the growing debate is Muftau Open Salawu, popularly known as “Open Salawu,” a respected civil engineer, businessman, philanthropist, and influential political figure whose visibility within the Oyo political structure has increased significantly in recent years.
Open Salawu has steadily built a reputation beyond politics through infrastructure development, grassroots empowerment, and strategic public service. Many political observers now see him as one of the strongest emerging voices from the Ogbomoso axis as permutations for 2027 quietly begin across party lines.
Currently serving as Chairman and Director-General of the Oyo State Project Performance Monitoring Agency under the administration of Seyi Makinde, Open Salawu plays a major role in monitoring government projects and ensuring delivery standards across the state. Before his elevation into the strategic agency, he served as Executive Assistant on Project Monitoring to Governor Makinde, a role that further positioned him close to the core of governance in Oyo State.
His growing profile is not accidental.
Beyond government appointments, Open Salawu is widely respected in professional and business circles. A trained engineer, he is affiliated with major professional bodies including the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers, where he holds the distinguished status of Fellow (FNSE).
He is also the founder of engineering and consulting firms, including Opinior Engineering Company Limited, a company known for handling infrastructure-related projects and technical consulting services.
However, what appears to be giving him massive grassroots appeal is his increasing humanitarian footprint across Ogbomoso and other parts of Oyo State.
Over the years, Open Salawu has sponsored scholarship programmes for students, supported small businesses with financial grants, empowered artisans, funded educational initiatives, and organized Ramadan feeding programmes for vulnerable residents. These interventions have earned him admiration among youths, religious groups, market communities, and local stakeholders.
Traditional institutions have also recognized his contributions. In Ogbomoso, he holds the prestigious title of Babalaje of Ogbomosoland, while he is also recognized as Giwa Adinni of Oyo State, titles that further strengthen his social and cultural influence within the region.
Political analysts believe the growing calls for Ogbomoso to produce the next Deputy Governor may not be unconnected to the region’s increasing demand for stronger political representation at the highest level of governance in Oyo State.
Historically, Ogbomoso has remained one of the most politically active zones in the state, producing influential leaders, technocrats, and political mobilizers. With 2027 gradually approaching, many supporters believe the zone deserves a strategic position in the next political arrangement.
Although no official declaration or endorsement has been made regarding the Deputy Governor position, conversations surrounding Open Salawu continue to gain traction, especially among grassroots political stakeholders who see him as a bridge between governance, development, and community engagement.
Observers also point to his close working relationship with the current administration, his administrative experience, and his growing acceptance among different political blocs as factors fueling the speculation.
While the political landscape remains open and unpredictable, one thing appears certain: Open Salawu is fast becoming a major name to watch in the future of Oyo politics.
Whether the Deputy Governor slot eventually goes to Ogbomoso or not, the emergence of personalities like Open Salawu reflects the ongoing shift in Oyo State’s political dynamics, where performance, grassroots connection, empowerment, and visibility are beginning to shape the next generation of leadership conversations.
As political calculations intensify ahead of 2027, many residents across Oyo State will be watching closely to see whether Ogbomoso finally secures a stronger place at the decision-making table — and whether Open Salawu becomes one of the defining faces of that movement.
For more information about Muftau Open Salawu and his activities, visit his official website: Muftau Open Salawu Official Website
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