Former Oyo First Lady Florence Ajimobi Declares 2027 Governorship Election as Political War
Florence Ajimobi, the widow of late Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi and a recently appointed ambassador-designate by President Bola Tinubu, has stirred significant controversy by characterizing the upcoming 2027 governorship election in Oyo State as a war between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In a widely circulated video, the former first lady asserted that the APC possesses the necessary resources and federal backing to reclaim power from the ruling PDP in the state.
Ajimobi's Bold Assertions on Political Power Dynamics
During her remarks, Ajimobi emphasized a strategic comparison between the two major political parties. She stated that while the PDP controls state-level power and financial resources, the APC counters with federal authority and substantial monetary support. "All powers belong to God, but we are going to beg God and fight them," she declared, underscoring her belief in divine intervention combined with aggressive political maneuvering.
Ajimobi further elaborated on the APC's advantages, noting that the party has access to federal might and all necessary support systems. Her comments reflect a deep-seated confidence in the APC's ability to orchestrate a successful takeover in Oyo State, despite the PDP's current dominance at the state level.
Public Backlash and Criticism of Ajimobi's Remarks
The former first lady's warlike rhetoric has not gone unchallenged, sparking a wave of criticism from various quarters. Many Nigerians have expressed skepticism about the APC's electoral prospects, particularly in the context of free and fair elections.
- Ayobola Ayo questioned the APC's reliance on violence and federal influence, arguing that the party cannot win without voter inducement and coercive tactics.
- Olulade recalled the perceived arrogance of Ajimobi's late husband's administration, suggesting that Oyo State residents have not forgotten past grievances and are unlikely to support the APC in future elections.
- Mogaji Lummy pointed to the electoral failures of Ajimobi's family members, including her son's loss in a local government election and her husband's unsuccessful senatorial bid, as indicators of diminishing political clout.
- Sky Empire advised Ajimobi to channel her combative energy into military service rather than disrupting the peace of Oyo State, praising Governor Seyi Makinde's governance and questioning the APC's campaign strategies.
Broader Implications for Nigerian Politics and Electoral Integrity
Ajimobi's declaration highlights the increasingly adversarial nature of Nigerian politics, where elections are often framed as battles rather than democratic processes. This rhetoric raises concerns about the potential for violence and electoral malpractice, as parties mobilize their resources for confrontation.
The public's reaction underscores a growing demand for transparency and fairness in elections, with many citizens expressing weariness over political theatrics and a desire for substantive governance. The focus on Oyo State as a battleground reflects its strategic importance in national politics, given its large population and historical significance.
As the 2027 election approaches, Ajimobi's comments may galvanize both supporters and opponents, setting the stage for a highly contested and potentially volatile electoral cycle. The emphasis on federal versus state power dynamics also points to deeper structural issues within Nigeria's political system, where central authority often clashes with regional autonomy.
Ultimately, this episode serves as a reminder of the need for political leaders to prioritize peaceful democratic engagement over warlike posturing, ensuring that elections remain a means for public expression rather than a source of division and conflict.
