Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is expected to formally declare his presidential ambition on Thursday, May 14, at a major political rally scheduled to hold at the historic Mapo Hall in Ibadan.
Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026
The rally, tagged “Unity Mega Rally Ibadan 2026,” is also expected to witness the formal unveiling of a political alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), alongside candidates and loyalists aligned with the emerging coalition being spearheaded by the Oyo State governor.
Political Consultations Intensify
Findings revealed that political consultations and underground mobilisation have intensified in recent weeks as loyalists of the governor continue to build momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections. Multiple sources close to the development disclosed that unresolved internal disputes within the PDP at the national level have further accelerated moves by some stakeholders to begin exploring alternative political arrangements and strategic alliances ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Expected Attendees
The planned Ibadan rally, according to insiders, is expected to draw political stakeholders, youth groups, community leaders, grassroots mobilisers and supporters from across the country, especially individuals believed to share Makinde’s political ideology and leadership approach.
Support Groups Campaign
Support groups backing the governor’s possible presidential bid have also intensified campaigns urging him to formally join the 2027 race, describing him as one of the few governors with national appeal and cross-regional political influence.
Defining Moment
Although Makinde has yet to publicly declare his intention to contest the presidency, political observers believe the May 14 gathering may serve as a defining moment in his national political calculations. The development is coming amid ongoing realignments within major opposition parties and growing conversations around coalition-building ahead of the 2027 elections.
