Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has expressed confidence that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will demonstrate its political strength against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in future elections, particularly the 2026 Osun State and the 2027 Oyo State elections. During a recent inauguration event in Osogbo, Makinde strongly dismissed the notion that the APC could gain political control over these states. He specifically criticized the ambition of APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, labeling it as unrealistic and suggesting that Ganduje’s comments may have stemmed from a distraction following recent electoral successes in Edo and Ondo states. The context of these remarks was further solidified when Ganduje announced the APC’s intention to dominate the South-West region’s political landscape by 2027, reflecting a broader ambition for the party’s influence in the region.
In a response laden with political undertones, Makinde, through his Chief Press Secretary, characterized Ganduje’s predictions as misguided. Highlighting the electoral choice made by the people of Osun State two years prior, Makinde emphasized their sustained support for Governor Ademola Adeleke, asserting that the state would deliver a robust response to the APC in upcoming elections. He credited Adeleke for effectively delivering on the promises made during his campaign and for contributing positively to the local economy, reinforcing the idea that this support would translate into a strong showing in the next election cycles.
Makinde underscored his admiration for Adeleke’s governance style, which focuses on continuity and the responsible management of public funds, regardless of political affiliation. His remarks reflected an ethos of public service that transcends party lines, as he identified the importance of completing inherited projects. Referencing ongoing developments like the dual carriage road project inaugurated that day, Makinde acknowledged the legacy of previous administrations while emphasizing the virtue of practical governance that prioritizes the needs of the people over party politics. His statements also implied a call for accountability among today’s leaders, promoting the idea that fulfilling public mandates should be the common goal above any partisan disagreements.
Further encouraging the electorate, Makinde urged the people to rally behind Adeleke for another term, asserting that their shared governance ethos was defining the true progressive nature of the PDP in the South-West. By invoking the political shift that Osun State underwent two years ago, he framed the upcoming elections as a continuation of the people’s commitment to progress as symbolized by their choices. Makinde’s rhetoric positioned the PDP as the party of substantive change, contrasting it against what he viewed as the APC’s misguided aspirations for power.
Shifting focus to the economic implications of recent construction projects like the dual carriage road, Makinde emphasized the direct link between infrastructural development and economic vitality. He painted a picture of an invigorated community where real estate values could elevate alongside the infrastructural improvements. Makinde consistently reiterated the importance of supporting leaders who prioritize projects that benefit the populace, calling on constituents to remain steadfast in their support for progressive policies and their execution. For him, these developments signify hope and potential for a more prosperous future, entrenching the idea that governance rooted in service and decisiveness could uplift local economies.
Lastly, addressing broader governance issues, Makinde criticized the current state of federalism in Nigeria, suggesting that it often inhibits effective governance and economic progress. He advocated for reforms aimed at realizing a true federal structure that could better serve local interests. Calling on other leaders, including Adeleke, to maintain their commitment to progressive ideals, he emphasized the need for a concerted effort to shape policies that directly benefit citizens. Makinde’s remarks culminated in a call for a united front among the progressive leaders of the South-West, driving home the message that the future political landscape would be constructed through innovative policies, community engagement, and a sustained commitment to public service.
