Oyo 2027: Who Will Succeed Makinde?

By Femi Ogundele

As we get closer to 2027, the political scene in Oyo State is heating up, with many eyes on the question of who will succeed Governor Seyi Makinde. His tenure has been marked by significant infrastructure projects, policies aimed at improving the economy, and transforming Oyo into a more modern state.

As his time in office winds down, the political landscape is shifting, and a lot is at stake in the race to fill his shoes. One of the most important factors influencing the race is the ongoing zoning debate within Oyo State. The state is traditionally divided into zones—Ibadan, Oyo, Ogbomoso, Oke-Ogun, and Ibarapa.

Over the years, local politics in Oyo has been shaped by a sense of balance between these zones, and the issue of who gets to lead next will likely be influenced by this political zoning.

In recent elections, Ibadan, the largest city and an influential district, has been seen as a key player in selecting the state’s leadership. However, many believe that it is time for other areas, such as Oke-Ogun and Ibarapa, to have a more substantial role in the decision-making process. This has led to calls for a more equitable distribution of power, with some advocating for a candidate from outside Ibadan to bring fresh perspectives and better balance.

Right now, a few names are popping up as possible successors for the political scene. One of them is Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, who’s the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly. He comes from Eruwa in Ibarapa. Ibarapa hasn’t had much representation in important political roles, and Ogundoyin’s rise has sparked talk about giving that region a louder voice. He has  gained respect for his work in the legislature, especially from younger voters, but people are wondering if he can handle the ups and downs of running a diverse state like Oyo.

Olayinka Oladimeji, a long-time member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and a loyal supporter of Governor Makinde, is another name being discussed. Oladimeji, hailing from the Oyo district, represents a continuation of Makinde’s policies, particularly in the rural regions. He is viewed as a candidate who could maintain continuity, but there is some concern that sticking with the status quo could hinder Oyo’s potential for innovation. The debate over whether to maintain the current direction or to embrace change will be central to this race.

In the business world, Saheed Oladele, an education expert and entrepreneur, has gained traction among younger professionals. He is seen as a breath of fresh air, advocating for youth development and education reform. His strong integrity and focus on transparency have made him popular in some circles, but his challenge will be winning over the established political machinery, especially in districts like Oyo and Ibadan, where the political elites have a strong hold.

The entire conversation around succession is even more interesting when you consider the political landscape. Oyo has a history of surprises in elections. We’ve seen a range of governors from Lam Adesina to Seyi Makinde, and none have followed the same path. Voters here can be unpredictable, making it tricky to guess how things will play out based solely on party lines.

While the PDP is likely working on getting a candidate from within its ranks, opposition parties like the All Progressives Congress (APC) are also on the move. There are whispers of a technocrat from the APC who may jump into the race. If the PDP doesn’t find a candidate that appeals to the people, the opposition could take advantage of any weak points.

As we look ahead to 2027, it’s essential to reflect on what kind of leadership Oyo needs. Should we stick with familiarity, aim for innovation, or push for major changes? Should we favor youth over experience, or find a balance between the two? Voters need to pay close attention to what candidates have done in the past and how they plan to tackle the challenges ahead.

Governor Makinde will likely have a vital impact on who takes over, whether he openly supports someone or influences things behind the scenes. His choice could steer the campaign in a particular direction, but history shows that endorsements in Oyo don’t always lead to success at the polls.

In the end, deciding who should take on Seyi Makinde’s role is more than just choosing someone popular. It’s about finding someone who has vision, integrity, and the capability to connect with the diverse people of Oyo. As 2027 nears, Oyo is at a turning point, and it’s up to its citizens to determine the path forward.