Who Will Be Makinde’s Chosen Successor? Spotlight on Oyo’s Political Transition
As the Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, approaches the end of his second term, political tension and speculation are rising over who will be the next leader of the state. Many believe that the photo of the man in the image circulating is being floated as Makinde’s successor. Whether that is true or not, the governor has made several public statements that suggest he does intend to influence the selection of his successor – and to make his preferred candidate known in advance. This blog post breaks down what is known, what is being speculated, and why PDP members and Oyo State citizens need to pay attention.
What Makinde Has Said: Time-Lines & Signals
Here are the verified statements by Makinde from recent news:
1. He will reveal his preferred successor in January 2026.
During the 11th Omituntun Ramadan Lecture in Ibadan, Makinde announced that in January 2026 he will unveil the picture of the person he intends to support to succeed him. This is significant because it suggests the campaign season and internal party negotiations will formally heat up by then.
2. He is not yet a lame duck.
Makinde asserted that even though his term will end in 2027, he remains active and influential, particularly in shaping PDP’s direction in Oyo State. He joked with a socialite (Abbas Oloko) that his billboard in Isale Alfa should not be taken down because it may soon carry the image of his chosen successor.
3. He will influence the choice but recognizes the role of the electorate.
Makinde has been clear that while he has a preference and intends to guide the process, the final decision will be the people’s. In several statements, he acknowledges that democracy and the will of PDP members and Oyo voters will decide who becomes governor in 2027.
4. The process promises to be challenging.
Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, Chairman of the Oyo State Advisory Council, said choosing the right successor among the likely PDP aspirants will be a herculean task, given Makinde’s record in governance across infrastructure, health, education, and public service reforms.
Debunking the Image Claim: Have We Got “The One”?
At present, and according to verified sources, no name has been officially declared by Governor Makinde as his successor. The person in the image you featured is not confirmed in any credible news source to be Makinde’s anointed candidate.
There is no publicly verified report saying this man is Makinde’s choice.
Makinde himself has said that he will only show the person’s picture in January 2026.
Thus, unless new information emerges, any claim that the person in that image is the chosen successor remains speculative.
Opposition and Reactions
Not everyone accepts or applauds the idea of a successor being “chosen” before elections. Some of the current contenders and critics argue:
Fairness and democracy: Some ex-ministers and aspirants have warned against an imposed successor, saying such a plan violates democratic norms and the people’s right to freely choose their leader.
Power rotation and inclusion: Critics have emphasized equitable representation across the different zones of Oyo State. There are concerns, for example, about the dominance of Ibadan in producing governors in past decades.
What to Watch For
Between now and January 2026, here are key developments to monitor:
Indicator Why It Matters
Billboard changes or public photo placements Makinde has made deliberate references to his billboard in Isale Alfa: it could be a physical symbol of endorsement.
Internal PDP meetings & stakeholder consultations Aspirants will likely begin to position themselves, trying to build support inside the party and among local leaders.
Public statements / claims by aspirants Already, people like Oladimeji have publicly declared their intention and believe they are best positioned.
Reaction from party elders and advisory councils Their support or backlash will be crucial in shaping legitimacy and acceptance.
Announcements in media / official party platforms Watch for official PDP communications. If there’s an endorsement, it will likely be communicated via formal channels.
Implications for PDP, Oyo Politics, and Everyday Citizens
Inside‐PDP dynamics: Makinde’s intervention, if it results in a preferred candidate, could sideline or discourage some aspirants. It may lead to internal friction and even defections.
Electoral competition: The readiness of opposition parties (e.g., APC or others) will hinge on whether PDP shows unity or fractures. A perceived imposition may energize opponents.
Governance legacy and continuity: Barring scandals or setbacks, Makinde’s preferred candidate will likely run on continuing infrastructure development, health, education, and public service reforms. The continuity argument could be compelling to voters who favor stability.
Youth, inclusion, fairness: If Makinde emphasizes age limits, fairness in zoning, or inclusivity in his choice, that could shape perceptions of legitimacy and help reduce political tension.
While the image you saw might be compelling, it is not confirmed that the person in it is Governor Seyi Makinde’s chosen successor. What is clear from multiple verified news sources is:
Makinde plans to make his preferred candidate public in January 2026.
He aims to influence the selection, but insists that the final decision must respect democratic process and the will of both PDP members and the electorate.
Several aspirants are already making claims, positioning themselves, while critics warn against undemocratic imposition.
0 Comments