Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State formally declared his intention to run for president in the 2027 general election on May 14, 2026, at Mapo Hall in Ibadan. The announcement was widely anticipated, given his political maneuvers and the ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). However, his chances and strategy have drawn criticism from various quarters, including Tunde Rahman, President Bola Tinubu's Senior Special Assistant on Media and Special Duties.
Predictable Ambition and PDP's Internal Uncertainty
Makinde's declaration came as no surprise to political watchers, who had observed his convoluted political steps. What remained unclear was the platform he would contest on, as the PDP remains embroiled in a leadership crisis. Rahman disagreed with Senator Shehu Sani's claim that northerners would not contest President Muhammadu Buhari, asserting that Makinde is entitled to his decision. President Tinubu welcomed Makinde's entry, with a potential showdown set for January 15, 2027. The field now includes Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Mohammed Hayatudeen, Makinde, and possibly Goodluck Jonathan.
Opposition Politics, Rhetoric, and Makinde's Messaging Style
Makinde claims to run on a PDP-APM alliance platform, though his faction of the PDP remains unsettled by court battles. At a rally dubbed "Unity Mega Rally," he called for national unity against "one-party rule" and suggested he could unite the opposition. However, at an All Opposition Summit on April 25, 2026, he threatened violence, warning the APC to remember the "wild, wild West" of the First Republic. Analysts like Segun Ayobolu condemned this comparison, noting that the current political climate allows free assembly and expression, unlike the 1964-65 Western Region crisis marked by electoral fraud and violence.
Governance Record vs Political Ambition Contradictions
While Makinde has been praised for infrastructure development in Oyo State, his political grandstanding is criticized. The opposition summit resolved to field a single candidate, but Makinde's entry complicates that goal. He aims to foist a successor on Oyo State while pursuing the presidency, raising questions about his focus.
Political Base, Alliances, and the Gamble Ahead
Makinde lacks a strong political base outside Ibadan, with his only northern support possibly from Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed. He has burned bridges with former allies like Senator Hosea Agboola, Chief Bisi Ilaka, and Hon. Babs Oduyoye, and his relationship with Nyesom Wike has soured. Rahman warns that Makinde's gamble could damage his reputation, legacy, and influence within the Yoruba race.
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