2027 Oyo Governorship: Makinde Fears Strong APC Challenge, Says Lanre Jinadu
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Lanre Jinadu, has alleged that Governor Seyi Makinde is becoming increasingly concerned about the political future of the state and the possibility of losing influence after his tenure.
Speaking during a political discussion on the unfolding succession battle in Oyo State, Jinadu claimed that Governor Makinde is uncomfortable with the growing popularity of Senator Sharafadeen Alli, whom he described as one of the most formidable opposition figures capable of challenging the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the next governorship election.
According to Jinadu, the governor's recent political moves suggest a determination to prevent Senator Alli from emerging as the next governor of Oyo State. He argued that the increasing attention being given to potential governorship aspirants across party lines is an indication that the political landscape is already taking shape ahead of 2027.
"Too much money is worrying Governor Seyi Makinde. He does not want Senator Sharafa Alli to become the next governor of Oyo State," Jinadu stated while assessing the political dynamics within the state.
The APC stalwart further dismissed suggestions that former Oyo State Commissioner for Finance, Bimbo Adekanmbi, constitutes a major threat to the APC's chances in the forthcoming governorship contest. He argued that while Adekanmbi remains a recognizable political figure in the state, his political influence should not be exaggerated.
Jinadu questioned the growing attention being accorded to Adekanmbi in some political circles, insisting that the former commissioner does not possess the political structure, grassroots support, or electoral strength required to significantly alter the balance of power within the APC or the wider political environment in Oyo State.
His remarks come at a time when conversations about Governor Makinde's successor are becoming increasingly prominent among political stakeholders, party leaders, and interest groups across the state. Although the 2027 governorship election remains some distance away, several names have continued to surface as potential contenders within both the PDP and APC.
Senator Sharafadeen Alli, who currently represents Oyo South Senatorial District, has in recent months attracted considerable attention within APC circles. Political observers note that he remains one of the influential figures within the opposition party and continues to enjoy support among many party faithful across the state. Recent APC stakeholders' engagements and political meetings have also highlighted his growing relevance within the party's succession calculations.
The debate surrounding Adekanmbi's political prospects has equally generated mixed reactions among political commentators and supporters. While some believe he remains a significant factor in Oyo politics due to his experience in government and public administration, others share Jinadu's view that he may not currently possess the political momentum necessary to emerge as a dominant force in the governorship race.
As Oyo State gradually moves closer to another election cycle, analysts expect political alignments, strategic alliances, and internal party negotiations to intensify. Both the ruling PDP and the opposition APC are expected to continue positioning key figures for what could become one of the state's most competitive governorship contests in recent history.
For now, however, Jinadu's comments have added another layer to the growing political debate over who will eventually succeed Governor Makinde and whether the APC can reclaim power in Oyo State after the expiration of the governor's second term.
0 Comments