Governor Seyi Makinde has directed political appointees in his administration who are interested in contesting elective offices in the 2027 general election to publicly declare their ambitions.
The governor gave the directive on Thursday during the 2026 Iftar programme organised by the Oyo State Government at the frontage of the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
Makinde said aspirants within his administration are now free to make their political intentions known and should feel confident of his support as long as their aspirations are driven by loyalty to the people and commitment to the development of the state.
He also advised the aspirants to contest under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, stressing that the party remains a strong political vehicle.
According to him, the directive became necessary following claims circulating on social media that he had not given political appointees the go-ahead to pursue elective offices despite the release of the election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
“I have read on social media that I have not given the go-ahead to political appointees who have ambitions to hold different political offices, including the governorship seat.
“So, henceforth, you are free. Whoever wants to contest for any position, bring out your billboards. And those of you who are bothered about the PDP crisis, add the party’s logo to the billboard; nothing will happen,” the governor said.
Makinde also used the occasion to appreciate Muslim faithful in the state for their prayers, support and cooperation with his administration, noting that such support has contributed to the progress and development witnessed in Oyo State.
In his lecture at the event, Islamic scholar Sheik Fadilat Muideen Onihantu commended the governor for what he described as his leadership qualities and commitment to service to God, family and the people of the state.
Chairman of the occasion and Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Daud Makanjuola Akinola, appreciated Makinde for sustaining the annual Iftar programme since the beginning of his administration and for supporting the Muslim community in the state.
Also present at the event were the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; former deputy governor, Engr. Hamid Gbadamosi; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi; and the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iy
