More candidates are still racing for the Agodi Government House plum job, Yinka Adeniran looks at the situations and issues in the state
More and more interest
The last may not have been heard of top politicians, technocrats and individuals who will still want to test their popularity by seeking to contest for party tickets for the Agodi Government House job, come 2027.
Across all party divides, particularly the two major parties in Oyo State: the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the leading opposition party, the All Progressive Congress (APC), various individuals are gearing up, and making subtle moves in terms of consultations and meetings to see how their dreams of flying the party flag in the 2027 governorship election will become a reality.
While some have made open their intentions by taking to the airwaves to announce their dreams, some others are still doing underground works, mostly nocturnal meetings and consulting with the who is who in their political party of choice.
It is worthy of mention that the forthcoming 2027 governorship elections may take an interesting turn in Oyo State in that, no party has ruled for more than the maximum constitutionally allowed eight years since the beginning of the current Fourth Republic.
How it stands
Oyo State has had a total of five governors since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999. The first governor was Lamidi Adesina, who served from 1999 to 2003 under the Alliance for Democracy (AD) platform. He was succeeded by Senator Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, who served from 2003 to 2007 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). However, Ladoja’s tenure was marked by controversy, including his impeachment in January 2006, which led to Christopher Alao-Akala taking over as acting governor. Ladoja was later reinstated in December 2006.
Ladoja didn’t contest the 2007 governorship election under the PDP platform. After failing to win the PDP nomination for a second term, Ladoja joined the Action Congress (AC) and supported their candidates in the 2007 elections. However, Christopher Alao-Akala, Ladoja’s former deputy, ran and won the election under the PDP platform, serving as governor from 2007 to 2011. Ladoja later contested the governorship election in 2011 and 2015 under the Accord Party (AP) but lost to Senator Abiola Ajimobi.
After Ladoja’s exit, Alao-Akala served from 2007 to 2011 under the PDP. He was followed by Abiola Ajimobi, who served two terms from 2011 to 2019 under the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) platform, which later transformed to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Ajimobi’s tenure was notable for his developmental initiatives and his work with Otunba Moses Alake- Adeyemo was his deputy for eight years.
In 2019, Seyi Makinde of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) won the governorship election and took office, marking a new era in Oyo State politics. Since then, Makinde has focused on infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment, among other initiatives. With each governor bringing their unique style and priorities to the role, Oyo State has continued to evolve and grow, shaped by the leadership and policies of its governors.
While three of the former governors including: Lamidi Adeshina, Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala and Senator Abiola Ajimobi are late, Senator Rasidi Ladoja who is billed to the crowned the 44th Olubadan, come September 26th, is the only surviving former governor of the current Fourth Republic.
Credit must be given to each of the former governors because they, in their own way, brought about certain degrees of development and transformation that has no doubt provided the bedrock and foundation upon which successive administrations built.
It must also be noted however, while the progressive party has changed name and metamorphosed from Alliance for Democracy (AD), Action Congress (AC), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and the merger with the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) to produce the current All Progressives Congress (APC), the PDP has remained constant as the only party that has produced three governors with the same party.
Why the 2027 governorship may be Interesting
In the political history of Oyo State, one of the unachieved dreams of any of the former governors was their inability to produce their successor. Particularly, despite the various lofty transformation and developmental strides of late Ajimobi, which made him earn the sobriquet, ‘Father of Modern Oyo State’ and ‘Mr Transformation’, amongst others, his desire to handover to a successor from within their party could not be achieved. Ajimobi was the first governor to serve a second term in office, as none of his predecessors could achieve the feat. The feat made him earn the accolade ‘Jinx Breaker,’ among his associates, supporters and friends within and outside the state.
Makinde’s move
Given the current scenario, Governor Makinde, who is also serving his second term has been bold and audacious in announcing his desire to handover the mantle of leadership to a successor from within his party.
As loud and audacious as he had been, he has remained silent and noiseless about who the would-be individual is. To put it succinctly, he has kept the card close to his chest, a decision which is throwing the field wide open for many people to throw in the hat.
Interestingly, the result of the recent by-election in Ibadan North Federal Constituency which went in favour of the PDP seems to have strengthened Governor Seyi Makinde’s grip on the party and the state. The manner of the selection of the candidate, who won the election, may have given a clue as to what to expect on how the party governorship flag bearer would emerge next year.
Members of the party and the people of the state are anxiously looking forward to January 2026, five months from now, when the Governor promised to reveal his preferred candidate. The governor had while speaking in March, during the 11th Omituntun Ramadan Lecture in Ibadan said: “In January 2026, we know that political activities will start. I will tell you the picture of the person that will be installed there.”
But while the waiting game continues, speculations are rife about those aspiring for the position in PDP. They include Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin; Adebo Akande, Executive Adviser to the Governor on International Cooperation Development and Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA); Chief Adegboyega Adegoke, businessman, politician, and philanthropist; and Niyi Aborisade, human rights activist and United Kingdom-trained lawyer.
However, there are indications that the list might have increased as some individuals have also made their intentions known either directly or indirectly through the media.
PDP
Dr Nureni Aderemi Adeniran
Dr. Adeniran is a prominent figure in Oyo State politics. He has a strong background in education, law, and governance, having held various positions in local, state, and federal levels. His experience includes serving as Executive Chairman of Ibadan South West Local Government and Commissioner in the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology.
His current role as Executive Chairman of Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has earned him recognition for his work in improving basic education in the state. His administrative experience and education expertise make him a credible candidate for the governorship position.
He has expressed interest in running for governor of Oyo State in 2027. It is not the first time I have ever dared to run. He did declare to run for the same office in 2019 under the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He emerged as the party’s gubernatorial candidate after an election held among 13 aspirants in Ibadan. However, the ADC’s National Working Committee later reaffirmed Senator Olufemi Lanlehin as the party’s candidate, rejecting Dr. Adeniran’s nomination due to issues with financial obligations. The situation made him dump the party for the PDP where he worked and supported Governor Makinde’s emergence in 2019.
Observers believe that, for him to succeed, he needs to strengthen his alliance with Governor Makinde and position himself as a natural continuity candidate. This would involve deepening his bond with the governor and demonstrating his value to the party, other things being equal.
Amofin Beulah Adeoye
Amofin Beulah Adeoye is an accomplished lawyer and financial forensic expert from Ipapo, Itesiwaju Local Government Area, with a strong background in law and finance. Adeoye has formally declared his intention to run for governor, highlighting key pillars of his vision, including enhanced infrastructure, value-driving agricultural projects, and human resource development.
He is aspiring for the 2027 Oyo State governorship election under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He officially joined the party in December 2024 and was warmly received by party leaders and members at the party’s secretariat in Otu, Itesiwaju Local Government Area.
Adeoye’s campaign is gaining momentum, with significant endorsements from various groups, including the Oke-Ogun Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Oke-Ogun Food Supply Dealers Association. These endorsements demonstrate his growing support and credibility among key stakeholders in Oyo State. His ability to secure royal blessings and support from traditional leaders, including the Aare of Ago-Areland, further strengthens his campaign.
Adeoye’s vision for Oyo State focuses on inclusive governance, unity, and development. He has engaged with various communities, including the Oke-Ogun League of Imams and Islamic Scholars, demonstrating his commitment to building bridges across the state’s diverse religious and cultural landscape.
With widespread regional interest and support from delegates from all ten Oke-Ogun Local Government Areas, Adeoye’s campaign is well-positioned to make a strong impact in the 2027 governorship election. His unique blend of legal expertise, financial acumen, and commitment to inclusive governance could make him a compelling candidate for Oyo State’s top leadership position.
Amb Taofeek Arapaja
Ambassador Taofeek Oladejo Arapaja is a seasoned politician and diplomat with a strong background in governance and international relations. He has served in various capacities, including Nigeria’s Ambassador to Jordan and Iran, Deputy Governor of Oyo State (during Alao-Akala regim in 2007-2011) and Chairman of Ibadan South-East Local Government. His experience spans local and national politics, diplomacy, and community leadership.
Arapaja’s leadership skills are evident in his roles as Deputy Governor and Ambassador. He played a key role in developing Oyo State’s infrastructure, promoting agriculture, education, and healthcare, and fostering strong relationships between Nigeria and other countries. His commitment to good governance and progressive reforms is well-documented.
As the current Deputy National Chairman (South) of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Arapaja has demonstrated his influence and leadership within the party. His governorship bid, according to observers, went silent initially when the Governor expressed willingness to hand over to a much younger person. However, the bid resuscitated when it became obvious that he may not be returning to his current DNC (South) position which the party is likely to zone to another place.
Despite his strong background, Arapaja faces challenges, including potential zoning issues within the PDP that might affect his chances of securing the party’s nomination. However, he has received endorsements from various stakeholders, including community leaders and party members, who believe he has the vision, passion, and experience to lead Oyo State to greatness.
Observers are of the view that Arapaja’s governorship bid is built on his extensive experience, leadership skills, and commitment to good governance. His ability to connect with the people and his grassroots politics are significant strengths in his campaign. With his impressive track record and dedication to public service, Arapaja may be a strong contender for the 2027 Oyo State governorship election.
Engr. Femi Babalola ‘Jogor’
Engr. Femi Babalola, popularly known as Jogor, is a seasoned politician and entrepreneur in Oyo State. He is a founding member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, having joined the party in 1998. Jogor, an Engineer is a successful businessman with interests in event management and hospitality, owning Jogor Event Centre and Jogor Hotel in Ibadan.
Jogor has been involved in politics since his university days at the University of Ibadan, where he served as the President of his association and later as Secretary of Sultan Bello Hall. He has contested for governorship positions and served as the Director-General of President Goodluck Jonathan’s campaign organization in Oyo State. His experience and knowledge of Oyo State’s dynamics and challenges make him a potential candidate for the governorship position.
He has been an ardent supporter and committed party man, irrespective of challenges. He has remained loyal to the PDP and has played a key role in mediating internal conflicts.
He recently hinted at running for governor in 2027 under the PDP, depending on the quality of other aspirants that are in the race. He emphasizes the need for a governor with deep knowledge of Oyo State’s dynamics and challenges. His governorship aspiration is driven by a desire to leverage his experience and knowledge to drive positive change in Oyo State.
As a successful entrepreneur, Jogor has contributed to community development through initiatives like sponsoring events and providing support for the less privileged. His commitment to public service, party loyalty, and community engagement makes him a potential candidate for the 2027 governorship election. With his impressive track record and dedication to public service, Jogor is a strong contender for the Oyo State governorship position.
APC
On the other side of the coin, the recent loss of the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election has thrown up a lot of issues within the APC. While some feels the loss was as a result of the inability of the party gladiators, particularly the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu and the 2023 governorship flagbearer, Senator Teslim Folarin to mend fences and achieve genuine reconciliation, others believed the people of the Constituency seized the opportunity to repay Governor Makinde for his governorship style.
The situation has forced some stakeholders to call for the exclusion of both gladiators in the race for the party ticket, come next year. Members of the APC in the state believe the party has immense goodwill but is in dire need of leaders in the mould of the late Abiola Ajimobi, who can seize the momentum and propel the party to the desired height.
Aside Adelabu , Folarin, Special Adviser to the President on Public Communications and Orientation, Mr Sunday Dare; Representative Remi Oseni; and Zacheaus Adedeji, Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) whose interest are within the radar, other personalities have also registered their intentions to contest the party ticket. The list include:
Engr. Rauf Olaniyan
Engr. Rauf Olaniyan, the former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, has declared his intention to run for governor in the 2027 general election under the APC platform. His governorship ambition is driven by a passion for service, social reengineering, development, and prosperity for all in Oyo State. With his extensive experience in governance and engineering, Olaniyan believes he has the qualifications and vision to lead Oyo State to greatness.
Olaniyan’s background is marked by humble beginnings, rising to occupy top seats in the state. Born in 1960 in Igboho, Oorelope Local Government Area, he has built a reputation as a dedicated public servant. As a former Permanent Secretary and Deputy Governor, Olaniyan has gained valuable experience in governance, public service and leadership. His professional qualifications, including being a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), further strengthen his credentials.
He initially aspired to run for governor in 2019 under the ADC. However, after losing out on the party’s gubernatorial ticket to Senator Olufemi Lanlehin, Olaniyan defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This move opened up new opportunities for him, and he eventually joined forces with Seyi Makinde, who was the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate.
Olaniyan, with his enviable profile accepted Makinde’s offer to be his running mate in the 2019 election. This strategic decision marked a significant turning point in Olaniyan’s political career. As Makinde’s deputy, Olaniyan brought his experience and reputation in Oyo State politics to the table, contributing to the PDP’s success in the 2019 elections.
As deputy governor, Olaniyan worked closely with Makinde to implement policies and programs aimed at developing the state. Although his tenure as deputy governor was cut short due to his impeachment in 2022, his experience in governance and leadership has positioned him for other political endeavors.
Despite his impressive background, Olaniyan is not unaware of some challenges in his governorship bid, as he has started to rebrand himself and build strategic alliances with influential APC leaders. Additionally, Olaniyan’s visibility and acceptance outside Oke-Ogun, particularly in Ibadan and Ogbomoso which may limit or affect his chances is also being addressed as he has been meeting and consulting notable figures, individuals and socio-cultural groups in other zones of the state.
However, Olaniyan enjoys strong loyalty in Igboho and Oke-Ogun, which could be a solid foundation for his campaign. He has received endorsements from various groups, which praised his leadership, experience, and vision for Oyo State. APC members in Orelope Local Government Area have also welcomed his declaration with enthusiasm, pledging their support and solidarity.
With his governorship ambition, Olaniyan aims to leverage his experience, leadership skills, and vision to drive development and prosperity in Oyo State. If successful, Olaniyan could bring his expertise and passion for public service to the governor’s office, making a positive impact on the lives of Oyo State citizens.
Dr. Azeez Adeduntan
Dr. Azeez Adeduntan is a Nigerian politician and cardiovascular surgeon with a strong background in medicine. He served as Commissioner for Health in Oyo State during Governor Ajimobi’s tenure and has been an active politician, running for governor in 2019 and 2023 under different parties. Adeduntan’s experience in healthcare has shaped his views on how to improve the lives of Nigerians, particularly in Oyo State.
Adeduntan has been a member of various parties, including the Labour Party, APC, PDP and currently back to the APC. His party affiliations have changed over time, based on his grouse for how the party ticket has been fought and won.
He was a member of the PDP in 2014 to 2015, but left when Senator Folarin got the ticket. He joined the APC two weeks before the 2015 election, which Ajimobi won. He became Ajimobi’s Commissioner for Health from 2016 to 2019. But, he pitched his tent with Makinde in 2023 after Senator Folarin won the APC ticket again. He openly campaigned for Makinde but returned to the APC in 2024 when it was obvious he was not in the scheme of affairs with Makinde.
As a chieftain of the PDP, Adeduntan has been involved in supporting Governor Makinde’s administration. However, he has also been critical of certain government policies, such as Makinde’s comments on age limits for gubernatorial aspirants, which Adeduntan sees as discriminatory. His commitment to good governance and public service is evident in his political activities and policy views.
He wrote an open letter to Makinde when the Governor, in April, said he would not hand over power to anyone above 52 years of age. Over the years, he has not hidden his displeasure with imposition of candidates on other aspirants and has vowed not to allow such come up in 2027, even in the APC that he is hoping to contest the ticket.
Adeduntan’s professional background as a cardiovascular surgeon has earned him recognition, and his foundation provides support to the less privileged. With offices in Nigeria and the US, Adeduntan has worked tirelessly to improve healthcare in Oyo State. His experiences in both medicine and politics have shaped his views on how to drive development and prosperity in the state.
Saheed Oladele
Saheed Oladele, the Baàmẹ̀kọ́ of Ibadanland, has thrown his hat into the ring for the 2027 Oyo State governorship election under the All Progressives Congress (APC). With a strong background in education and entrepreneurship, Oladele with his slogan, “Joy is coming”, believes he has what it takes to transform Oyo State. As perhaps the youngest aspirant so far known, he cites his integrity, diligence, and competence as reasons why prominent Oyo State figures have called on him to join the race.
Oladele’s journey to prominence began with humble beginnings, hawking pepper on wooden trays. However, he rose to become a first-class graduate of the University of Ibadan and a renowned educational consultant. He has trained teachers in over 200 schools across Nigeria and founded the Erudite Group of Schools, which achieved a world-record 100% pass rate in Cambridge A’ Level international examinations.
The APC aspirant has been busy building relationships with key stakeholders, including the immediate past National Chairman of APC, former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, and the First Daughter of Nigeria, Mrs. Folasade Tinubu-Ojo. Oladele’s consultative approach has earned him recognition as a formidable contender in the 2027 gubernatorial election. Beyond meeting stakeholders from across the 33 local government areas of the state including youth groups, associations, trade groups, Oladele has taken his consultation far away outside the state and country to sensitise and create awareness on his mission in the United States among others.
Oladele’s supporters believe he is the leader Oyo State needs in 2027, citing his comprehensive vision, extensive network, and compelling personal story. They argue that his emergence would galvanize the significant youth demographic in Oyo State and attract a broader electorate seeking a breath of fresh air in the state’s political leadership.
As a prominent chief of Ibadanland with deep roots in the community, Oladele maintains excellent relationships with the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII). Given that Ibadan accounts for over 45 percent of Oyo State’s voting population, his popularity within the city positions him favorably in the governorship race.
Barr. Akeem Agbaje
Barrister Akeem Agbaje is a prominent figure in Oyo State politics, known for his exceptional leadership qualities, charisma, and vision for the state’s development. He has declared his intention to run for the governorship election in 2027 under the APC. With a solid educational foundation and extensive experience in politics and governance, Agbaje is well-positioned to lead Oyo state towards a brighter future.
Agbaje’s leadership qualities are highly regarded, and he is described as a visionary leader with strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. He has demonstrated his ability to inspire and motivate others, manage conflicts, and make tough decisions for the greater good of society. His commitment to community development is evident through his active participation in local communities, grassroots movements, and volunteer work.
He previously aspired to contest for the governorship ticket in Oyo State, notably in the 2019 and 2023 elections. Despite losing the APC ticket in 2019, he rallied behind the eventual winner and supported his party’s activities. Agbaje’s commitment to public service and his vision for Oyo State’s development have driven his aspirations for the governorship position. He emphasizes the need for party cohesion, effective leadership, and grassroots engagement, while warning against the imposition of candidates.
Agbaje is once again expressing his interest in the governorship position for the 2027 election. He stresses the need for a united APC and a candidate who resonates with the people. Agbaje’s vision for Oyo State’s development and his leadership qualities make him a notable figure in the state’s politics. His aspirations for the governorship position are driven by his commitment to public service, and he is considered a promising candidate for the future of Oyo State.
As a seasoned politician, Agbaje has built strong relationships with influential individuals, community leaders, and like-minded politicians. He is well-respected for his ability to navigate complex political landscapes and negotiate effectively. Agbaje’s supporters believe he is the best choice to lead Oyo State towards a brighter future, citing his exceptional leadership qualities, charisma, and vision for the state’s development.
Factors that may determine who gets the ticket
Oyo state politics is not only thick and deep, it could show unpredictable coloration that may beat political permutations. However, certain factors that will shape the outlook may include:
Zoning
There is a growing call by stakeholders to allow for power rotation to other political zones of the state. Oyo State has five political zones, each with distinct characteristics and voting strengths. The zones are Ibadan, Oke-Ogun, Ogbomoso, Oyo, and Ibarapa. These zones play a crucial role in shaping the state’s politics and governance.
The Ibadan Zone is the most populous and influential; accounting for about 45 percent of the state’s voting strength. It comprises 11 local governments and has significant representation in the State House of Assembly. The Oke-Ogun Zone, on the other hand, accounts for 23.4 percent of the state’s voting strength and has 10 local governments. The Ogbomoso Zone has 5 local governments and accounts for about 14.1 percent of the voting strength.
Before the 2019 elections, particularly the Oke Ogun zone has been clamouring for power shift and had at different times vowed to only vote for the political party that fielded the Oke Ogun candidate. However, the dream has not been realistic as they are mostly zoned with the Deputy Governor position.
The 2027 election provides another opportunity to see if the agitation will become realistic. Although it remains uncertain if Ibadan Zone will allow power shift to other zones, it is on record that, since the current political Republic, only late Governor Alao-Akala from the Ogbomoso zone has served as governor of the state (from 2007-2011).
Religion
Another key factor that may determine who the parties may field may not be unconnected with the religious affiliation. The slot has rotated between Christians and Muslims in the ongoing fourth Republic and no religion has been allowed more than a maximum of eight years at the helm of affairs, irrespective of political party. The current Governor, being a Christian is also aware of the subtle desire of the Muslim community to have political parties’ field candidates of their fate. It remains unclear how this trend may go, but only time will tell.
