​ The political landscape in Oyo State has entered a definitive new phase following the formal presentation of the Certificate of Return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Hazeem Gbolarumi. As the party celebrates this milestone, Hon. Opeyemi Fatola, the PDP candidate for the Ibadan Southwest/Ibadan Northwest Federal Constituency, has publicly commended the party’s national leadership, specifically highlighting the pivotal role played by Nyesom Wike in safeguarding the party’s democratic integrity.

​Fatola, a staunch advocate for party cohesion, remarked that the emergence of Gbolarumi as the party’s flagbearer is a testament to a robust internal process championed by the national hierarchy. He noted that the leadership, spearheaded by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has been instrumental in navigating the party through turbulent waters and restoring its focus on reclaiming power.

​”We owe a debt of gratitude to the national leadership for their unwavering stance in defense of democracy,” Fatola stated. “The steady hand of Nyesom Wike and the dedication of the national executive committee have provided the clarity and structural stability necessary for our party to thrive. They have demonstrated that the PDP is a resilient institution, capable of rising above internal challenges to present a unified, formidable front to the people.”

​The federal constituency hopeful emphasized that the presentation of the Certificate of Return is not just a bureaucratic step, but a symbolic validation of the party’s renewed vision. According to Fatola, the leadership’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity during the primary process has bolstered the confidence of party faithful across the 33 local government areas of Oyo State.

​”With this certificate, we have moved from the phase of internal reconciliation to the era of outward mobilization,” Fatola added. “The national leadership has done its part by creating an environment where the most capable and loyal candidates can emerge. Now, the responsibility falls on us to carry this momentum to the grassroots.”

​As he rallied party supporters, Fatola issued a confident call to action, urging the Oyo State electorate to prepare for what he termed a decisive march toward the Agodi Government House. He reiterated that with the support of the national leadership and a fully aligned state structure, the PDP is firmly positioned to reclaim the state’s mandate.

​”The flag is officially raised. I call on all our people to remain steadfast, show your support, and be ready to vote when the time comes,” he declared. “The PDP is here, we are united, and we are ready to win.”

​The endorsement by Fatola marks a significant consolidation of political capital for Gbolarumi’s campaign, as the party shifts its full attention to the 2027 gubernatorial election cycle.