Makinde Confident PDP Will Retain Power in Oyo, Reclaim Presidency in 2027

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has expressed confidence that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will not only retain power in the state beyond 2027 but also reclaim the presidency in the next general elections.

Makinde gave the assurance on Monday, September 29, 2025, while addressing delegates at the Oyo State PDP Congress held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

The congress brought together ward executives, local government leaders, stakeholders, and delegates from all 33 local government areas of the state.

Highlighting the importance of internal democracy, Makinde commended the PDP for successfully conducting its ward, local government, and state congresses peacefully, without conflict. He described this as a sign of the party’s organizational strength and stability, which he believes will keep the PDP attractive to voters in the coming elections.

He emphasized that the unity displayed during the process shows the PDP in Oyo is building a sustainable political structure that will endure beyond electoral cycles.

The governor also charged the newly elected state executive members to remain diligent, work hard, and uphold party unity. He stressed that every executive member has a role in ensuring the PDP’s success at both state and national levels.

On the issue of inclusion, Makinde assured party members who are yet to benefit from government appointments that they have not been forgotten, promising that opportunities would be created to reward their efforts and contributions to the party’s growth.

The event was described as a major show of strength for the PDP in Oyo State, with members reaffirming their loyalty and commitment to the party’s future.

Governor Makinde concluded with words of encouragement:

“I want to congratulate all of us in advance because I believe, in this party, we won’t all labour in vain. We will all reap the fruits of our labour in this government.”

Makinde Commends Peaceful PDP Congress in Oyo, Hails Sule Lamido’s Presence

The Governor of Oyo State and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Seyi Makinde, has expressed satisfaction with the smooth conduct of the party’s state congress held in Ibadan on Monday.

The congress, observed by former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, was described by Makinde as a rancour-free process that reflected unity and discipline within the party.

Sharing updates on his verified Twitter page, Governor Makinde stated:

“Earlier today, we held the Oyo State @OfficialPDPNig Congress 2025 to elect our executives. It was a rancour-free process from the ward, local government, and today, the state level. Let me again thank our leader, His Excellency Sule Lamido, former Governor of Jigawa State, for observing today’s proceedings.”


He further charged the newly elected state executive members to focus on ensuring the PDP’s victory in all elections come 2027, from the presidential contest down to councillorship positions.

The governor’s remarks have since generated conversations online, with supporters commending the peaceful atmosphere of the congress and the leadership role played by Makinde in strengthening the PDP in Oyo State.

Create Ibadan State Before 2027 — Olubadan, Oba Ladoja Tells President Tinubu.

The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has urged President Bola Tinubu to approve the creation of Ibadan State before 2027.

Oba Ladoja made the appeal while addressing residents shortly after receiving the Staff of Office from Governor Seyi Makinde. Speaking in Yoruba, he noted that the people of Ibadan had sent a clear message to the President, insisting that the creation of Ibadan State remains their top priority.

Governor Makinde, in his remarks, described Ladoja’s ascension as the 44th Olubadan as a moment of pride for the people. He said the coronation ceremony reflected the significance of preserving the city’s traditions, adding:
“It is a great honour to celebrate the coronation and official presentation of the Staff of Office to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adewolu Ladoja. The joy and excitement across Ibadan today highlight the importance of upholding our heritage.”

Udom Emmanuel Clears Air on Rumoured Makinde 2027 Presidential Ambition

Former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel, has dismissed claims that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, is nursing a 2027 presidential ambition.

Speaking with journalists at an event in Abuja, Emmanuel said he has never been informed by Makinde—whom he described as a close friend and colleague in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—about any such plans.

“Governor Makinde is my friend, a former colleague and one of the strong leaders of the PDP, to which I belong. I can say on my honour that Seyi has never told me he is running for President. If we are as close as we are and he hasn’t told me, then I suspect that people are just using that narrative as a tool of blackmail—either to weaken his role in rebuilding our party or to cause friction between him and the President,” Emmanuel said.


He further noted that while it is normal for any aspirant to consult stakeholders before declaring an ambition, no such discussion had been brought to his attention.

Emmanuel stressed that Makinde remains a loyal party man dedicated to the revival of the PDP, and that abandoning the platform would be “morally wrong.” He emphasized the need for political tolerance in Nigeria’s democracy, saying that both ruling and opposition parties must co-exist to strengthen governance.

Addressing his own low political profile since leaving office in 2023, Emmanuel explained:

“I had promised at the twilight of my administration that when I leave office, I will leave the stage for my successor and retreat to my private life and engagements, and that is exactly what I have done. That doesn’t mean I have retired from politics. I still share ideas with leaders across different levels. There is time for everything—time for politics and time for private life—and I’m abiding by that principle.”

His remarks come amid speculation about alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

BASA Accuses Governor Makinde of Betrayal, Says He Abandoned Her Local Government for Another Candidate

Bolanle Aminat Sarumi-Aliyu (BASA), a former Senior Special Assistant on Diaspora Matters to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, has voiced strong disappointment over what she described as a breach of political trust by the governor.

In a video interview shared on the official YouTube channel of Edmund Obilo, BASA recounted how Governor Makinde had personally pledged support for her ambition to contest a seat in the House of Representatives under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). According to her, the governor encouraged her candidacy as part of his stated commitment to increase women’s participation in politics.

However, BASA said things took a different turn when the decisive moment arrived. She claimed the governor abandoned his promise, leaving her and her supporters embarrassed, while instead throwing his weight behind another consensus candidate.

“He disappointed and abandoned my local government in front of all of us the same day he chose the other consensus candidate,” she said.

Her remarks have sparked debate among political observers, with many pointing to her experience as another example of how women often face exclusion despite ongoing calls for gender inclusivity in Nigerian politics.

BASA’s outburst is expected to reignite discussions about trust, loyalty, and fairness within the PDP in Oyo State, while also highlighting broader concerns about women’s representation in leadership positions.

The Yoruba socio-cultural group, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, has urged Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to caution the Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Olusola Alao, over alleged harassment of LAUTECH graduate Oyediran Taiwo David. The group accused the monarch of using thugs and police to intimidate David, who legally bought land in 2006. It condemned the misuse of police power and warned it may escalate the matter to national and international bodies if the intimidation persists.

#YorubaUnion #Olugbon #OyoState

Oyo 2023: BASA Denies Stepping Down for Seyi Makinde, Says She Fought Till the End

Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant, Bolanle Aminat Sarumi-Aliyu (BASA), has dismissed speculations that she withdrew from the race to back Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, or any other contender.

In an interview with journalist Edmund Obilo, Sarumi-Aliyu described the claims as false and damaging to her political image.

“I did not step down for anybody. We need to get it straight. I did not step down for Governor Seyi Makinde. I did not step down for Adelabu. Nobody. I fought till the end,” she declared.

Explaining her loss, BASA pointed to a wave of last-minute withdrawals by other political heavyweights in favor of Makinde, which created the impression that she had also stepped down.

“Weeks before the election, all the political giants stepped down for Governor Seyi — Senator Lanlehin, Senator Sarafa. The rumor spread that everyone had joined him. My supporters from all 33 local governments started calling, asking if I had stepped down too. I told them I didn’t. But the rumor weakened my campaign,” she explained.

When asked why she refused to align with Makinde, Sarumi-Aliyu said her decision was based on personal conviction and her vision for Oyo State.

“I have my own mission. I have my own goals. I know that I will be the best governor in this country,” she boldly stated.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is considering former President Goodluck Jonathan and ex-Anambra Governor Peter Obi among possible southern candidates for its 2027 presidential ticket, according to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Mohammed described Jonathan as “the most celebrated politician today” and said Obi would be welcomed if he returned to the PDP.

He added that other southern politicians, including Governor Seyi Makinde and even former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi, could be in the mix, stressing that the PDP was open to credible figures who could strengthen the party.

The PDP NEC recently zoned its 2027 presidential slot to the South, while retaining the chairmanship for the North, and reaffirmed Umar Damagum as National Chairman.

Meanwhile, the ruling APC has already endorsed President Tinubu for re-election in 2027.

#PDP #Jonathan #PeterObi #2027Elections #NigeriaPolitics #BreakingNews

PDP Members Pushing For Northern Ticket Are Selfish – Bode George

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, has slammed members agitating for the party’s 2027 presidential ticket to be zoned to the North, calling them selfish and manipulative.

Speaking on Channels TV’s Lunchtime Politics on Tuesday, George praised PDP governors and the National Executive Council (NEC) for zoning the ticket to the South while retaining the chairmanship in the North.

“Unanimously, in that NEC meeting, we agreed to zone the ticket to the South for the next four years to complete eight years in the South. But human beings manipulate because they want to grab power, and it’s nothing but self-centredness,” he said.

He thanked the governors for what he described as a fair and balanced decision, insisting that fairness and equity must guide the party’s future.

On dissenting figures like Nyesom Wike and Seyi Makinde, who worked against the PDP in 2023, George said the party would give them time to “roll back and fall in line” but warned that the sledgehammer awaits those who refuse.

The PDP’s decision comes as the APC has already endorsed President Bola Tinubu for re-election in 2027.

#PDP #BodeGeorge #Politics #2027Elections

2027 showdown: Wike-Makinde rift threatens high-stakes PDP convention.

There are strong indications that the November national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party scheduled for Ibadan, Oyo State, may be derailed following a threat by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to halt the event.

Wike’s opposition to the convention is believed to be the result of his rift with his erstwhile ally, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and other unresolved issues in the party.

Ahead of the elective convention slated for November 16, the PDP has, however, issued a stern warning to the minister over his moves against the party’s plans.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, in an interview with selected journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, cautioned that decisive action under the party’s constitution would be taken against him should he continue to undermine the collective interests of the party.

PDP National Executive Committee members, including Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor and former National Vice Chairman (South West) Eddy Olafeso, accused Wike of overstepping his bounds, vowing to resist his moves.

They stressed that the party was undergoing a rebuilding process and would strengthen its structure through the Ibadan convention, insisting that no individual could obstruct internal party activities, particularly with the Independent National Electoral Commission already involved.

The PDP only just emerged from months of internal crisis that saw the defection of key figures, including its 2019 and 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his running mate and former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, as well as Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, and other prominent leaders to the APC and the newly formed African Democratic Congress.

In a bid to restructure and reposition itself, the party, during its 101st NEC meeting on July 24, resolved to convene a National Elective Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, where 19 new members will be elected into the National Working Committee.

Oyo Gov. Seyi Makinde Gifts Car To Gospel Singer Yinka Ayefele

Gospel singer and music producer, Yinka Ayefele, has received a black SUV gift from Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde.

A video showed Ayefele surrounded by government officials as the vehicle was presented to him.

The gesture comes shortly after a fire incident damaged two of Ayefele’s radio stations, Fresh FM 105.9 and Blast FM 98.3, destroying offices, transmitters, and equipment.

: Seyi Makinde/Facebook, Oyo Affairs/Instagram

#gift #fintternews #YinkaAyefele

Olubadan Laid To Rest In Ibadan.

The late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, has been buried on Friday.

Naija News reports that he was laid to rest after a dignified church service held at the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Aremo, Ibadan.

Speaking during the church service, Bishop Joseph Akinfenwa urged attendees to live life that make lasting, positive impact, honoring the legacy of the late monarch.

The ceremony attracted a large gathering of prominent figures, including Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde, Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, former Deputy Governor Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, House of Representatives member Akin Alabi, alongside government officials and traditional rulers from across Oyo state.

JUST IN: Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, yesterday said that his administration has always placed merit and excellence above sentiments and bigotry in its appointments.

FG Knocks US Embassy for Overstepping Bounds, Intruding in Internal Affairs.

Officials of the Federal Government has accused the United States Embassy in Nigeria of overstepping its diplomatic bounds and interfering in the country’s internal affairs, following the circulation of a critical media report targeting Nigerian leaders.

Government officials expressed outrage over the U.S. Mission’s alleged role in promoting an article published by The Africa Report, which criticised state governors for lavish spending on new government buildings in Oyo and Gombe States.

The report, it is understood, drew backlash in Abuja, with senior sources accusing the U.S. Embassy of encouraging a “smear campaign” under the guise of press freedom.

“The embassy’s actions are not only inappropriate but violate diplomatic norms,” a senior government official told reporters. “They have crossed the line into political interference.”

The Federal Government defended the governors mentioned in the article, describing Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo and Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe as models of fiscal discipline. Officials said both governors have maintained responsible budgeting, improved public services, and met workers’ salaries regularly.

Sources also alleged that the article was influenced by personal motives. According to them, the publisher of The Africa Report had earlier approached the Nigerian Governors’ Forum for sponsorship of an “Africa Roundtable” event but was turned down. The rejection, officials claim, led to strained relations and eventual negative coverage — now reportedly circulated by the U.S. Embassy.

“This isn’t journalism. It’s retaliation disguised as reporting, and the U.S. Mission’s role in spreading it is unacceptable,” a government source said.

The government pointed to Article 41(1) of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which bars foreign missions from interfering in the domestic affairs of host countries. Officials say the U.S. Embassy’s recent actions clearly violate this principle.

Governor Seyi Makinde has faulted Atiku’s departure from the PDP, urging others causing setbacks to exit.

Source: Daily Trust Nigeria

Late Oba Olakulgehin: Bayelsa State Governor Diri Condoles With Oyo State Government and People

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has extended the condolences of the government and people of the state to the government and people of Oyo State on the passage of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, on Tuesday, the Bayelsa governor also commiserated with indigenes of Ibadan land, describing the foremost monarch as a bridge builder, unifier and father to all.

Governor Diri recalled the conferment of the Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadan (MOFI) award on him by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes in May this year; an honour presented to him by the monarch through the Otun Balogun and former governor of the state, Senator Rasheed Ladoja, in Ibadan.

He said the late paramount ruler cemented the bonds of unity between his people, Oyo State and the government and people of Bayelsa.

He also stated that the royal father’s support, guidance and peaceful, albeit brief, reign engendered an environment for the growth and development of Ibadan land and Oyo State in general under the focused leadership of Governor Oluseyi Makinde.

While mourning the passing of Oba Olakulehin, Diri urged Ibadan indigenes and people of the state to be comforted by the exemplary life and ennobling legacies of the late nonagenarian monarch.

He equally prayed God to grant his subjects, the governor and people of the state the fortitude to bear the loss.

Former Oyo governor Rashidi Ladoja set to become next Olubadan.

Following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, all eyes have now turned to former Oyo State governor, Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, who is next in line to ascend the ancient throne.

Oba Olakulehin passed away on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90, just two days after marking his birthday and one year on the throne.

He received his staff of office from Governor Seyi Makinde on July 12, 2024, after succeeding Oba Lekan Balogun.

With his passing, the well-established rotational succession system of the Ibadan traditional institution now positions Ladoja, the current Otun Olubadan, as the most senior high chief and next in line to be crowned.

Ladoja, a prominent political figure and respected statesman, served as governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2007.

Despite his political engagements, he remained active in the Ibadan traditional hierarchy, steadily progressing through the civil line of the Olubadan chieftaincy ladder over several decades.

The Ibadan traditional succession system is unique in Nigeria. Unlike most monarchies, where lineage or heredity determines ascension, the Olubadan title rotates between two lines, with succession determined by seniority. Ladoja, having climbed through the ranks of the civil line, has now reached the apex.

Sources within the Olubadan-in-Council have confirmed that preparations are underway for the formal announcement of Ladoja’s nomination, pending ratification by Governor Makinde and the Oyo State Executive Council.

Traditionally, once the position is officially declared vacant and the council reaches consensus, the governor is expected to present the staff of office.

Ladoja’s anticipated ascension is already stirring reactions across Ibadanland and beyond, with many describing it as a “historic moment” that will see a former governor and national political figure wear the crown of Ibadan’s highest traditional office.

The late Oba Olakulehin’s burial arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days by the Olubadan-in-Council. Meanwhile, attention now shifts to Agodi, where the final nod for Ladoja’s coronation will come from the Oyo State Government.

If confirmed, Ladoja will become the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland

Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Olakulehin, Passes Away at 90.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed on, just two days after marking his 90th birthday. According to Tribune Online, the revered monarch d+ed in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, barely a year after his coronation.

Oba Olakulehin officially received his staff of office from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on July 12, 2024, becoming the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland. He succeeded the late Oba (Dr.) Moshood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, who d+ed on March 14, 2024, at the age of 81.

Oba Olakulehin had ascended the throne from his previous position as the Balogun Olubadan.

Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, Dies at 90.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has died at 90, just two days after his birthday.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has died at the age of 90, just two days after marking his birthday.

Reports indicate that the revered monarch passed away in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025, bringing an end to a short but significant reign that lasted just one year.

Born on July 5, 1935, Oba Olakulehin ascended the throne of his ancestors on July 12, 2024, when he was officially presented with the staff of office by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. He was crowned as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, following a storied traditional succession process rooted deeply in the city’s unique chieftaincy system.

His passing marks a solemn moment for the people of Ibadan and the wider Yoruba nation, who regarded the Olubadan as a symbol of unity, tradition, and cultural heritage.

Students Protest Renaming of The Polytechnic Ibadan.

Students of The Polytechnic Ibadan on Tuesday staged a protest at the Oyo State Government Secretariat, opposing the recent decision by Governor Seyi Makinde to rename the institution after former Governor Omololu Olunloyo.

Carrying placards with various inscriptions, the students called on the governor to reverse the name change and preserve the identity and legacy of the institution.

Led by the Students Union Government (SUG) President, Olamide Oladipupo, the protesters emphasized that the original name of the polytechnic holds historical and academic significance globally and should not be altered.

The protest follows Makinde’s announcement on June 26, 2025, during the funeral service of Olunloyo, where he declared the renaming of the institution to Omololu Olunloyo Polytechnic, Ibadan. Olunloyo, who died on April 6, 2025, was the institution’s first principal and briefly served as governor of Oyo State in 1983.

Governor Makinde described the move as a tribute to Olunloyo’s contributions as a scholar, technocrat, and cultural figure. However, students believe such a change disregards the identity the institution has built over the years.

Addressing the protesters, the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security, Sunday Odukoya, urged the students to remain peaceful while their concerns are reviewed.

The renaming of public institutions after political figures has increasingly stirred controversy nationwide. Similar changes—such as attempts to rename the University of Abuja and University of Lagos—have faced public resistance from students and alumni.