By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is set to announce his preferred governorship candidate and possible party platform shift for the 2027 elections in Ibadan, Oyo State, within 48 hours, according to party sources. The decision follows weeks of consultations with Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders, local government chairmen, lawmakers, and advisory council members. The move aims to resolve internal disagreements, manage zoning and religious concerns, and strengthen the party’s position ahead of 2027. Stakeholders say Makinde’s choice, reportedly former Finance Commissioner Bimbo Adekanmbi, emerged through extensive consultations and consensus-building meetings across the state.
Makinde’s Expected Announcement on 2027 Succession Plan
Governor Makinde is expected to unveil his preferred candidate on Sunday.
Sources say the announcement may also include a new political platform strategy.
Party insiders claim the governor has concluded consultations.
However, official confirmation is still pending.
A PDP source stated that the candidate has met key stakeholders.
These include lawmakers, council chairmen, and party executives.
Stakeholder Consultations Shape Consensus Choice
Makinde reportedly engaged the state advisory council on succession planning.
He also directed interactions with governorship aspirants earlier in 2026.
The advisory council did not screen candidates formally.
Instead, it evaluated their development plans for Oyo State.
Adekanmbi participated in meetings with key political groups.
He also engaged local government leaders across the 33 LGAs.
Religious and Zoning Tensions Influence Political Calculations
Some party stakeholders raised concerns over religious balancing in succession.
They argued that the next governor should be a Muslim.
They referenced an alleged 2023 political understanding within the party.
This expectation has fueled internal debates among aspirants.
Opposition parties are reportedly monitoring the situation closely.
Most of their leading contenders are Muslims, according to party observers.
PDP Crisis and Possible Party Realignment
The PDP continues to face internal leadership disputes nationwide.
A recent Supreme Court ruling invalidated a 2025 national convention.
This judgment deepened divisions within the party structure.
It also increased uncertainty ahead of the 2027 elections.
Some reports suggest Makinde’s camp may explore alternative platforms.
However, no official statement confirms a defection or merger plan.
Bimbo Adekanmbi’s Political Profile Gains Momentum
Bimbo Adekanmbi previously served as Finance Commissioner in Oyo State.
He also contested the 2023 Oyo South senatorial ticket under APC.
He officially joined the PDP in December 2025.
He declared his governorship ambition in April 2026.
His growing political engagements suggest strong backing from influential stakeholders.
He has also chaired key state infrastructure committees under Makinde.
Reactions From Party Stakeholders and Aspirants
Some PDP members say they await Makinde’s official declaration.
They insist the governor has not finalized any public announcement.
Others suggest the decision may trigger realignments among aspirants.
Some may defect if not selected as consensus candidates.
There are also claims of possible movement to alternative parties.
However, these remain unverified at this stage.
