Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has declared that political influence from the federal level will not determine the outcome of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that Nigerians are now ready to vote based on competence and performance.
Makinde made the statement during the Oyo State Tourism Summit held at the University of Ibadan International Conference Centre. According to him, Nigerians are becoming more politically aware and will no longer remain passive during elections.
The governor said citizens are prepared to participate actively in the democratic process and will reject attempts to impose candidates through political power or federal influence.
“I believe that this election cycle, federal might will not work,” Makinde stated, adding that Nigerians would surprise politicians with their level of participation and political awareness.
Speaking on the future of governance in Oyo State after his administration, Makinde explained that his government has focused on building strong systems and structures that can sustain development beyond his tenure.
He noted that although he may recommend a successor, the final decision on who becomes the next governor rests with the people of Oyo State. He warned that electing a leader without the required capacity could negatively affect the state for years.
Makinde stressed that leadership may ce, but strong institutions and systems remain essential for long term growth and development.
The governor also addressed speculations linking him to a possible endorsement of former Commissioner for Finance, Bimbo Adekanbi, as his preferred governorship candidate. He maintained that his support would go to anyone who is loyal to Oyo State and has the competence to govern effectively, regardless of political party affiliation.
According to him, Oyo State is now focused on creating sustainable structures capable of driving economic growth and development into the future.
Meanwhile, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, recently disclosed that lawmakers held a strategic meeting with Adekanbi, whom he described as the consensus governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement in the state.
Makinde’s comments have continued to generate reactions as political alignments and preparations ahead of the 2027 elections gradually intensify across the country.
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