Not even Sarafadeen Alli (APC) or Bimbo Adekanbi (PDP) nor the ‘Debos’ have captured the attention of Oyo State residents in the lead-up to the 2027 elections as GovernorSeyiMakinde. Numerous aspirants from various parties are vying for the governorship, including a local government chairman, making history as the first to declare his intention to run.
We’ve also seen young individuals seeking the position, a right they possess, especially with a youthful president in a country like Mali succeeding admirably. However, everyone deserves equal opportunity, regardless of age.
Amidst this, several APC figures in Oyo State have refuted claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has endorsed Sarafadeen Alli as the consensus candidate. And within Governor Seyi Makinde’s camp, there’s a belief that he hasn’t yet chosen a candidate from the PDP.
In the APC, prominent figures, including Saheed Oladele have cautioned against endorsements, labeling them false and potentially disruptive to the party’s unity. They argue that involving President Tinubu in such “speculative arrangements” is misleading and creates unnecessary tension. They noted that the President remains committed to democratic principles and has not endorsed any candidate for the Oyo governorship.
Furthermore, several groups have also alleged that the proposed one-term arrangement linked to Senator Alli serves the interests of those seeking to divide Oyo State’s geopolitical zones. They warn that such narratives could harm party cohesion and electoral prospects.
While there’s speculation that Senator Sarafadeen Alli, who joined the APC in 2022, might be running with Soji Adedeji, Zaccheaus Adedeji’s brother (a former Labour Party candidate), the Oyo APC seems uncertain about its governorship candidate. Teslim Folarin is also vying for the ticket, with the party structure in his favour, and isn’t ready to concede despite offers of a senatorial slot and five federal representative tickets to support the consensus candidate.
What about the current Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, who hasn’t resigned despite being President Tinubu’s favoured choice? Is he afraid of another defeat, even though Governor Seyi Makinde won’t be on the ballot? The fact remains that Omituntun 3.0 campaign will be spearheaded by the Governor, who has repeatedly stated his commitment to ensuring his candidate’s success. But who is this preferred choice? Is it among the frontrunners who have declared their ambitions? We’ve seen House of Representatives members and cabinet appointees declare their intentions, yet they haven’t resigned as per the new electoral act.
It’s surprising that some aspirants haven’t even engaged with the Governor but are spending freely, seemingly being exploited. However, the Seyi Makinde I know will only support those loyal to Oyo State’s development, those who demonstrate competence and are chosen by God, not those with financial largesse.
Remember how Barr. Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal was selected as the running mate for the 2023 election? A legal expert who never aspired to the role, he was chosen based on his competence and loyalty to Oyo State’s development through his role as Chairman of the Housing Corporation. He transformed the Corporation and revitalized its staff.
Consider how Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (DoN) was chosen as the PDP candidate in the last bye-election. He wasn’t among those who declared their ambitions, yet he was selected. Today, he serves as the Reps of Ibadan North. Is Makinde not working mysteriously?
Also, Professor Musbau Babatunde’s rise to Secretary to the State Government (SSG) demonstrates how Governor Makinde makes decisions. His loyalty, integrity, and dedication paved the way for him. He became the SSG through divine grace. This highlights the mysterious nature of the Governor’s decision-making.
So, in my view, Governor Makinde is a case study. All governorship aspirants should study and deeply reflect on this rather than setting themselves up for failure.
Well, publishers, journalists, influencers, and promoters can continue to enjoy the financial benefits until my Governor announces his successor, whom I will wholeheartedly support and who will be the next Governor of Oyo State, Insha Allah.
Perhaps, that person doesn’t even know himself yet!
Oyedeji Ahmed writes from Ibadan. He can be reached via mouthpiecengr@gmail.com or 08064372225
