As the 2027 Oyo State gubernatorial election approaches, the people of Oyo are poised at a critical crossroads. The choices they make will shape the future of their state for generations to come. In this pivotal moment, it’s essential to examine the candidates, their visions, and their track records. One thing is clear: the APC’s chances of taking over governance in Oyo State are slim, and they are to face an uphill battle against the incumbent PDP administration.
In an exclusive interview with naijatodaynew.com publisher, Prince Adetunji Fabode, Alhaji Adebisi Olopoeyan, a renowned chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, shared his insights on the All Progressives Congress (APC) chances of taking over governance in Oyo State. Olopoeyan, who has been a key player in Oyo State politics, expressed doubts about the APC’s ability to win the governorship in 2027.
When asked about the APC’s national executive committee’s endorsement of Chief Adebayo Adelabu as the gubernatorial candidate for 2027, Olopoeyan described the decision as “alien” and “foreign grown.” He emphasized that the APC in Oyo State works for interests and that Adelabu’s candidacy was not a homegrown choice. Olopoeyan also questioned the legitimacy of the endorsement, noting that Adelabu had not officially announced his candidacy and that the leadership’s announcement was merely a ploy to attract supporters.
“Over ambition of a personality is bad,” Olopoeyan noted. “I know the party will never re-present Adelabu. The leadership releases the News to attract patronizers. Delegates will be selected in Oyo State not in Abuja. Can Adelabu be made bold to make press in that regard?” He also expressed concerns about Adelabu’s electoral record, noting that “For now, APC does not have a credible candidate that can overweight PDP in Oyo State. Adelabu has ever lost APC tickets.”
Olopoeyan cited Adelabu’s past losses, including the 2019 APC primary and the 2023 gubernatorial election, which he contested on the Accord Party platform. “Makinde prevailed over him in 2019, and repeatedly in 2023, despite being contested on Accord Party, when Teslim Folarin seized the Oyo Gubernatorial ticket from him on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC. Failure! Adelabu seizing 2027 Oyo Gubernatorial ticket is beginning of winning for PDP in the state.”
In contrast, Olopoeyan praised the performance of Governor Seyi Makinde, who has been credited with significant developments in the state. “Makinde’s administration has greatly developed the cities and towns. General road infrastructure across the length and breadth of Ibadan and Oyo at large. Criminality and poverty have been reduced. This is never in defense of Seyi Makinde, but the fact about his administration.”
Olopoeyan emphasized that Makinde’s achievements have set a high bar for any potential successor. “Makinde usually supervises his approved projects. No wonder township roads, including Bere, Beyerunka, Ode Aje, Idi Ape, Gate, and others, were included for reconstruction. No APC Guber candidate can do half Seyi Makinde’s performance.”
When asked about who might succeed Governor Makinde, Olopoeyan declined to speculate, noting that the governor has announced that he will reveal his successor by January 2026. However, he emphasized that whoever is chosen will need to have a strong track record of performance and governance.
Olopoeyan acknowledged that Makinde’s administration has had its strengths, including improvements in lighting, road infrastructure, airport upgrades, and agricultural hubs. However, when asked about the weaknesses of the administration, Olopoeyan diplomatically noted that “we have had so much of his strengths.”
Finally, Olopoeyan offered advice to Nigerians, particularly the residents of Oyo State. He emphasized the importance of carefully considering their representatives and avoiding money politics. Olopoeyan also urged citizens to speak up when things are not progressing in governance, noting that “Nigeria belongs to us” and that true governance should be prioritized over politicking.
As the 2027 gubernatorial election approaches, Olopoeyan’s insights provide valuable context for understanding the complexities of Oyo State politics. While the APC’s chances of taking over governance may be slim, the election is shaping up to be a highly competitive and unpredictable contest.
