Makinde to Announce Preferred Successor in January 2026
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has revealed that he will announce his preferred successor in January 2026 as political activities for the next election cycle begin.
Makinde made this statement on Monday during the 11th Omituntun Ramadan Lecture at the Government House Arcade in Ibadan, where he thanked Muslim leaders for their support and urged them to continue praying for his administration. The lecture, titled “Benefits of Being a Good Neighbour: An Islamic Perspective,” was delivered by Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomoland, Yunus Teliat.
Speaking in Yoruba, Makinde playfully addressed socialite Abbas Oloko, asking him not to remove his billboard at Isale Alfa, as his successor’s image would be displayed there in January 2026. He also encouraged Muslims to use Ramadan as a time to promote peace and religious harmony.
Having secured a second term in 2023, Makinde is not eligible for re-election but has expressed interest in influencing the 2027 governorship race, particularly within his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Back in October 2024, while receiving a report on public service reforms, he affirmed that although the final decision rests with the people of Oyo State, he would still play a key role in shaping the political landscape.
“I may not have my way; it’s the people of Oyo State that will decide. But I’ll have a say, especially in the PDP, because I still control the party structure,” he stated.
As political activities gear up for 2026, all eyes will be on Makinde’s choice and its potential impact on Oyo State’s political future.
