2027: Makinde moves to name successor

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has revealed that his administration has begun engaging credible individuals as part of a structured transition process ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

In Newsletter No. 136 tagged “The Business of Governance”, Makinde stated that the process aims to ensure continuity and a level playing field for all aspirants. He promised to communicate the outcome at the appropriate time.

“We have engaged with a number of credible individuals as part of a deliberate transition process, and I will communicate a decision in due course – one that reflects both the progress we have made and the future we must secure,” the governor said.

The governor tasked his advisory council, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Bolaji Ayorinde, to consult with all governorship aspirants on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform and provide recommendations for a candidate in continuation of Omituntun 3.0. Among those who responded are:

Adedeji Olajide (Odidiomo) – Member, House of Representatives (Ibadan South-West/North-East)
Nureni Adeniran – Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board
Bimbo Adekanmbi – Former Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Planning
Debo Akande – State Chairman, Agribusiness Development Agency
Adebo Ogundoyin – Speaker, State House of Assembly

Makinde acknowledged that residents are watching the process closely. “I am aware that many of you are watching closely as we approach a transition period in Oyo State. You have questions about continuity, leadership, and the future direction of our state,” he said.

Earlier, the governor announced that the PDP candidate would emerge through consensus on April 8.

Addressing concerns about Nigeria potentially devolving into a one-party state, Makinde urged citizens to remain engaged. “Democracy is built on plurality, on different voices, including those we may not agree with, because that keeps a system open, accountable, and responsive,” he said.

He warned that withdrawing from political discourse could weaken democratic institutions. “Today, voices that speak against a one-party state are being openly threatened. Opposition is being fragmented or pushed to the margins. When the government cannot be held accountable, everyday challenges become harder to resolve,” Makinde added.

The governor concluded by stressing that protecting democracy requires active participation. “Democracy will not be protected by silence, but by those who stay engaged, ask questions, and insist that institutions work for the people,” he said.