Governor Seyi Makinde has formally declared the race for the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State open, stating that aspirants do not need to be personally loyal to him but must instead demonstrate genuine commitment to the progress of the state.
The governor made the declaration during an Iftar gathering with political stakeholders, where he addressed growing public concerns about his silence on the succession plan and speculation surrounding who he might endorse as his preferred candidate.
Makinde noted that although many people had accused him of not speaking about the next governorship contest, he has now made his position clear that the race is officially open to all interested aspirants within the political space.
He, however, cautioned that the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022 come with certain limitations and guidelines that miggt not seem right for political actors, which remains binding with them and must be respected, as the political season gradually unfolds.
The governor urged prospective candidates to place the interest of Oyo State above personal ambition, stressing that what matters most is their love for the state and their readiness to sustain its development trajectory.
Makinde maintained that the future leadership of Oyo should emerge through a fair and transparent process, adding that his priority remains ensuring that the state continues on the path of stability, growth and good governance.
