Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde says his administration has begun engaging credible individuals as part of a deliberate transition process for the 2027 governorship election.
In his April 2026 newsletter, “The Business of Governance,” Makinde said discussions with aspirants on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are ongoing and that a decision on the party’s candidate would be communicated in due course.
“We have engaged with a number of credible individuals as part of a deliberate transition process, and I will communicate a decision in due course, one that reflects both the progress we have made and the future we must secure,” he wrote.
Makinde had earlier tasked an advisory council, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Bolaji Ayorinde, to interact with all PDP governorship aspirants and provide recommendations for a candidate to continue the party’s Omituntun 3.0 agenda.
Aspirants who have participated include Adedeji Olajide, member of the House of Representatives representing Ibadan South-West/North-East; Nureni Adeniran, chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board; Bimbo Adekanmbi, former state finance commissioner; Debo Akande, chairman of the Agribusiness Development Agency; and Adebo Ogundoyin, speaker of the state House of Assembly.
Makinde acknowledged that residents are closely watching the transition and seeking clarity on continuity, leadership, and the state’s future. He reiterated that a party consensus candidate was initially scheduled to emerge April 8, but did not provide a new date.
He also stressed the importance of a robust democracy, warning against the risks of a one-party state. “A healthy democracy depends on balance, the presence of credible alternatives, strong institutions, and the confidence citizens have in the process,” Makinde said.
The governor encouraged citizens and leaders to remain engaged, saying, “Democracy is not built on agreement. It is built on plurality, on the presence of different voices, including those we may not agree with, because that is what keeps a system open, accountable, and responsive.”
Makinde noted recent developments within the PDP, the African Democratic Congress, as well as actions by INEC and the judiciary, underscore the need for continued dialogue and citizen participation to protect Nigeria’s democratic space.
