Governor Seyi Makinde has openly thrown the political space in Oyo State wide open ahead of the 2027 general elections, asking political appointees in his administration with ambitions for elective offices to publicly declare their intentions.
The governor made the declaration on Thursday during the Oyo State Government’s 2026 Iftar programme held at the frontage of the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
Makinde said the directive became necessary following widespread claims that he had not given the go ahead for aspirants within his government to begin political consultations despite the release of the election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
The governor said those with political ambitions, including the governorship seat, are now free to openly pursue their aspirations.
“I have read on social media that I have not given the go-ahead to political appointees who have ambitions to hold different political offices, including the governorship seat,” Makinde said.
“So henceforth, you are free. Whoever wants to contest for any position should bring out your billboards.”
Makinde also urged aspirants to contest on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, insisting the party remains strong despite speculations about internal challenges.
Addressing concerns about the party’s stability, the governor encouraged aspirants not to shy away from identifying with the PDP publicly.
“And those of you who are bothered about the PDP crisis, add the party’s logo to your billboard , nothing will happen,” he added.
Makinde further used the occasion to appreciate Muslims in the state for their prayers and support for his administration, noting that their cooperation has contributed to the progress and development recorded in Oyo State.
Earlier in a lecture at the event, Islamic scholar Sheikh Fadilat Muideen Onihantu commended the governor for what he described as his dedication to leadership, family and service to the people.
Also speaking, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Daud Makanjuola Akinola, praised Makinde for sustaining the annual Iftar programme since the beginning of his administration and for supporting the Muslim community in the state.
Among dignitaries present at the event were the Olubadan of Ibadanland and former governor of Oyo State, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly Debo Ogundoyin, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Mohammed Fadeyi, as well as top government officials, religious leaders, traditional rulers and political stakeholders across the state.
The governor’s remarks are widely seen as a signal that political permutations ahead of the 2027 elections have begun to gather momentum in Oyo State.
