Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has cautioned residents against making the wrong choice in the 2027 governorship election, emphasizing that the decision on his successor rests with the people. Speaking at the 2026 Oyo State International Tourism Summit in Ibadan, Makinde stressed that competence and capacity, not political affiliation, would guide his administration's recommendation for a successor.
“We are blind to party colouration; we are open to capacity that can move Oyo State forward,” the governor stated. He warned that if voters fail to elect the right person, the consequences would last for four years. Makinde reiterated that developmental track record remains the key criterion for assessing leadership suitability.
APC Adopts Alli as Consensus Candidate
Meanwhile, leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State have reaffirmed the adoption of Senator Sharafadeen Alli as the party’s consensus governorship candidate. The decision, announced during a meeting at the Prof Theophilus Ogunlesi Hall, University College Hospital, Ibadan, aligns with the position of President Bola Tinubu and the APC national leadership.
Speaking on behalf of stakeholders, Pa Alarape Jolaoso said the adoption followed extensive consultations and strategic alignment within the party. Senator Ayoade Adeseun expressed confidence that Alli would win if a direct primary election were conducted, urging party members to remain united ahead of the 2027 polls.
Party Unity and Reconciliation
Adeseun called for reconciliation among party members, stressing that unity is critical to the APC’s electoral prospects. Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle noted that the consensus arrangement reflects loyalty to the party’s leadership structure, adding that the state executive committee and key stakeholders have been briefed on the decision. Other party leaders described the move as a step towards strengthening internal cohesion and improving the APC’s chances in the upcoming election.
