Makinde to announce preferred successor in May, awaits Supreme Court decision on PDP

In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde said on Saturday that he will reveal his preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election before the first week of May, after ongoing consultations and while waiting for a court ruling on his party. He made this known through a newsletter, explaining that discussions have been held with elders, religious leaders, and key stakeholders across the state.

The governor stated that the process of choosing a successor is ongoing and that a number of strong contenders have already emerged. However, he noted that he has not disclosed his final choice to anyone yet and warned that any claims suggesting otherwise are not correct.

Makinde also explained that his decision on the political platform for the candidate will depend on the outcome of a pending case at the Supreme Court of Nigeria concerning the Peoples Democratic Party. He said the ruling will guide the next steps for him and his team.

Several individuals have been linked to the race following an internal screening process that began in March. These include Nureni Adeniran, Segun Ogunwuyi, Taofeek Arapaja, Adebo Ogundoyin, and Adedeji Stanley Olajide.

The announcement comes amid rising political activity in the state ahead of the 2027 election. Recently, there were claims involving former First Lady Florence Ajimobi and Speaker Ogundoyin about an alleged plan to remove the governor, but both parties denied the report. Ogundoyin later stated that he rejected an offer meant to influence him, maintaining his loyalty to the governor and the party.

There were also claims by former Ekiti governor Ayodele Fayose that Makinde planned actions against the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja. Both the governor and the monarch dismissed the allegation, describing it as false and politically motivated.

Makinde’s statement signals that a final decision on his preferred successor will be made soon, but only after legal clarity on the party’s status is achieved.