Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo State, has said “federal might” will not determine the outcome of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that Nigerians will vote based on competence rather than political influence.
Makinde made the remarks on Wednesday during the Oyo State Tourism Summit held at the University of Ibadan International Conference Centre (ICC).
According to the governor, Nigerians are becoming more politically conscious and will actively participate in deciding the country’s future.
“I believe that this election cycle, federal might will not work. It has worked in Ekiti state in both instances but this time around, Nigerians will show politicians pepper,” he said.
“They will show us that they don’t want to be bystanders anymore; they will participate, and I’m sure of what I’m saying.”
Makinde also addressed the issue of succession in Oyo State, insisting that while he may recommend a candidate to succeed him, the final decision would remain with the people.
“I tell people that I will recommend for Oyo state people, but the decision will rest with the people of Oyo state,” he said.
The governor warned against electing a leader without the required competence, saying poor leadership choices could negatively affect the state for years.
“But if you make a mistake and bring someone who will not do good work, it is a one-day event, but the impact will last four years,” he added.
Speculation has continued to grow over reports that Makinde may support Bimbo Adekanbi as his preferred governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 election.
Adekanbi previously served under the late Abiola Ajimobi during the administration of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Fueling the speculation, Adebo Ogundoyin revealed on Wednesday that he led lawmakers from the state to a “strategic breakfast meeting” with Adekanbi, whom he described as the consensus governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement.
Oyo remains the only state currently controlled by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), despite the party’s lingering internal crisis involving factions loyal to Makinde and Nyesom Wike.
Responding to concerns over supporting politicians with APC backgrounds, Makinde said loyalty to Oyo State and capacity to govern were more important than party affiliation.
“Morohunkola Thomas or Bimbo Adekanbi, are they not from Oyo state? For us, if you’re from Oyo state, loyal to Oyo state, and have capacity, we will support you,” he said.
“We are blind to party colouration but open to capacity that can move Oyo state forward.”
Makinde added that his administration is focused on building strong systems capable of sustaining development beyond his tenure, stressing that future governments should build on existing structures rather than start afresh.
