Bisi Olopoeyan, a prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain in Oyo State, has stated that Governor Seyi Makinde will consult him before selecting a successor for the 2027 governorship election. Olopoeyan made the claim during an interview on Captain P2 Media hosted by Peter Olasupo, where he dismissed the possibility of conflict between his political camp and the governor's. He cited a longstanding political understanding with Makinde, asserting that no major decision on succession would be taken without including key stakeholders like himself. "Governor Seyi Makinde will consult me and inform me before choosing anyone as successor. We understand each other politically, so there is no reason for disagreement," Olopoeyan said.
The statement has sparked fresh political discourse in Oyo State, where succession calculations are gaining traction less than two years into Makinde's second term. Olopoeyan, known for his grassroots mobilisation influence, has played key roles in past PDP electoral victories across the state. His intervention is interpreted by analysts as a move to reaffirm his relevance amid growing competition among PDP interest groups. Governor Makinde has not publicly endorsed any aspirant, but his influence in determining the party's 2027 flagbearer is widely acknowledged.
Political observers note that loyalty, competence, and electoral viability are expected to guide Makinde's choice. However, concerns persist that sidelining influential blocs could trigger internal tensions. Some party leaders have urged aspirants to avoid actions that could escalate tensions, calling the current level of speculation premature. Opposition parties are also monitoring PDP dynamics as they prepare for the next electoral cycle. Political alignments are gradually emerging across Oyo State, with Olopoeyan's declaration adding a new dimension to the evolving succession debate.
