Makinde Endorses Adekanmbi as Preferred Successor in Oyo Governorship Race

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has reportedly declared Bimbo Adekanmbi as his preferred successor ahead of the 2027 governorship election under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

The declaration was made during Adekanmbi’s unveiling as the APM consensus governorship candidate at a political event held in Ibadan.

Tinubu Says Nigeria Spent ₦18.4 Billion Daily on Fuel Subsidy Before Removal

Governor Makinde, while addressing supporters, expressed confidence in the emerging political arrangement between his camp and the APM, suggesting that the structure could extend beyond Oyo State politics into a broader national strategy.

He thanked supporters for their loyalty and hinted that his administration’s political influence could expand beyond the state ahead of the 2027 elections.

Makinde, who is widely regarded as a key political figure in the South-West, used the occasion to publicly align with Adekanmbi’s candidacy while urging supporters to remain committed to the ongoing political structure.

During the event, Adekanmbi was presented as the consensus candidate and reportedly received strong backing from the governor and party stakeholders present.

Makinde praised the political arrangement in Oyo State, describing it as a continuing model of governance and political organisation under his leadership.

He also encouraged Adekanmbi to build on existing achievements and focus on development-driven governance if elected.

The governor, however, cautioned Adekanmbi against becoming entangled in his personal political rivalries.

According to him, political leadership requires independence and the ability to navigate challenges without inheriting past conflicts.

“I have told Bimbo, don’t inherit my enemies; chart your own path,” Makinde said, adding that leadership involves learning from both successes and mistakes.

He further urged Adekanmbi to improve on the administration’s achievements for the benefit of residents of Oyo State.

The endorsement comes amid growing political activity in Oyo State as parties and aspirants begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Observers say the move could significantly reshape the political landscape in the state, particularly within the opposition and ruling party structures.

Political analysts also note that succession politics in Nigerian states often generate intense negotiations, alliances, and realignments as governors seek to maintain influence beyond their tenure.

With the latest endorsement, attention has now shifted to how other political actors in Oyo State will respond as the race for 2027 gradually takes shape.

The coming months are expected to witness increased political consultations and strategic alignments as parties prepare for what is shaping up to be a competitive election cycle.