10 Things to Know About Oriyomi Hamzat, Family and Achievements
The name Oriyomi Hamzat has become synonymous with grassroots advocacy and fearless broadcasting in Nigeria. As he transitions from a media mogul to a serious political contender for the 2027 Oyo State governorship, many are looking closer at the man behind the microphone. Here are ten essential facts about the Oriyomi Hamzat family and achievements that define his journey.
1. Journalism is a Family Legacy
Oriyomi did not fall into broadcasting by accident; it is in his blood. His father, the late Alhaji Asimiyu Adekunle Hamzat, was a prominent journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). Growing up, Oriyomi watched his father hold those in power accountable, a trait he has mirrored throughout his own career.
2. He is a Lifelong Scholar
Despite his busy career, Hamzat has never stopped pursuing education. He holds a Diploma in Geology and another in Mass Communication from The Polytechnic, Ibadan. In a recent academic milestone, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics and Language Arts from the University of Ibadan in November 2023.
3. Founder of Agidigbo 88.7 FM
One of his greatest professional achievements is the establishment of Agidigbo 88.7 FM in Ibadan. Launched terrestrially in 2021, it became the first radio station in the city licensed to a broadcast journalist. The station is famously known as “the people’s voice” for its focus on human-angle stories.
4. A Humanitarian at Heart
Through the Oriyomi Hamzat Charity Foundation, he acts as a father to many. He is well known for sponsoring the education and daily feeding of numerous orphans and motherless children in Oyo State, often using his own resources to ensure they have a future.
5. Holder of an Honorary Doctorate
In recognition of his immense contributions to the field of communication and social advocacy, he was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Art and Communications (D.Art, Honoris Causa) by the European-American University in April 2023.
6. Recipient of International Honors
His work has crossed national borders. In September 2023, he received the International Humanitarian Service Award from the International Human Rights Commission, solidifying his status as a global advocate for the marginalized.
7. He is a “Truth to Power” Activist
Hamzat gained national prominence for his role in demanding justice for the late Timothy Adegoke, a student whose mysterious death at a Hilton hotel sparked outrage. His relentless pursuit of the truth in this case led to his temporary arrest, but ultimately boosted his reputation as a man of integrity.
8. Exceptional Staff Welfare
Unlike many media owners, Hamzat is known for extreme generosity toward his employees. He recently made headlines for gifting several cars to long-term staff members at Agidigbo FM, citing their loyalty and hard work as the backbone of his success.
9. He Has Survived Legal Storms
His path has been marred by political intimidation. Between 2017 and 2023, he faced multiple arrests and a long-standing murder charge that many believed was politically motivated. He was eventually acquitted of all charges, an experience he claims taught him the true value of freedom.
10. 2027 Governorship Aspirant
On January 17, 2026, Oriyomi Hamzat officially declared his intention to run for the Oyo State governorship under the Accord Party. He has pledged to run a “masses-centric” government, aiming to apply the same principles of justice he championed on the radio to the executive office.