As the political landscape begins to shift ahead of the 2027 general elections, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has been accused of harbouring deep concerns over the rising popularity of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde. This claim was made by Hon. Dare Adeleke, the Caretaker Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State and Special Adviser on Federal Constituency Matters to Governor Makinde.
In a weekend interview, Adeleke stated that the APC is afraid of what Makinde represents — a bold, youthful, and competent alternative to what he described as a “failed and disconnected federal leadership under the APC.” His comments come amid speculations that Governor Makinde may contest in the 2027 presidential elections.
“The APC is in mortal fear of a potential Makinde ticket under the PDP,” Adeleke declared. “They know that his candidacy could spell doom for their disastrous administration, which has arguably become one of the most disappointing governments in Nigeria’s democratic history.”
Adeleke pointed out that while the APC appears unsettled by the governor’s increasing national visibility, Makinde’s achievements in Oyo State have continued to attract praise across party lines. He said the governor’s performance speaks louder than any political noise or propaganda.
“Why wouldn’t they be afraid?” he asked. “Governor Makinde has consistently outperformed them in all aspects of development and governance. President Tinubu’s leadership appears clueless and has brought nothing but suffering — poverty, hunger, and despair.”
Adeleke reeled off a number of achievements by the governor, including major infrastructure projects, improvements in public service delivery, and effective fiscal management.
“In Oyo State under Makinde, all sectors are thriving,” he said. “He has rehabilitated and constructed roads across the state, not just in Ibadan. He introduced a modern, affordable transport system that is still functioning despite the fuel subsidy removal that has crippled mobility elsewhere in the country.”
He further added that the state’s educational system has seen a revival, with regular payment of teachers’ salaries, infrastructure upgrades, and the promotion of digital learning. In agriculture, Adeleke claimed that Oyo now enjoys one of the lowest food prices nationwide due to targeted investments and support for farmers.
“Healthcare delivery has improved, low-income housing projects are ongoing, and security has been enhanced through community partnerships and tech-driven surveillance. These are real achievements, not media fabrications,” he said.
Governor Makinde has not formally declared interest in the 2027 presidency, but Adeleke said the governor’s recent comment about having what it takes to lead Nigeria is not empty talk.
“Makinde simply stated the obvious. Nigerians are watching. They know who is performing and who is just talking,” Adeleke said. “We’ve had enough of geriatrics seeking power just to enrich themselves and recycle their friends. That era is gone.”
He also hinted that Makinde represents a new generation of leadership — one that understands the challenges of modern governance and has the energy and ideas to move the country forward.
“Nigerians are no longer fooled by slogans,” he added. “We’ve seen what APC has done — or failed to do. Makinde offers a real alternative. He’s young, vibrant, and has a proven record. If he chooses to run, the APC better be prepared for a tough fight.”
Adeleke said that the PDP, particularly in the Southwest, is reorganising and preparing to confront the APC in 2027. According to him, the ruling party has lost the trust of Nigerians and is only clinging to power through manipulation and misinformation.
He said, “The PDP is coming with its best, and if that best turns out to be Governor Seyi Makinde, then the APC is in trouble. Nigerians are alert now. They are ready to reject another round of deceit.”
Adeleke concluded his remarks by urging the public and the political elite to embrace issue-based campaigns as 2027 draws nearer, rather than trading insults or playing on religious and ethnic sentiments.
“This country needs healing and genuine leadership. If Governor Makinde decides to run, he will have my full support and that of millions of Nigerians who want real progress, not promises,” he said.
Governor Seyi Makinde is serving his second term as the governor of Oyo State under the platform of the PDP. A trained engineer and businessman, he rose to national prominence following his first-term achievements in education, infrastructure, and fiscal transparency. He is widely seen as one of the most pragmatic and people-focused governors in the country.
While he has remained relatively quiet about any presidential ambition, recent comments and increased political activities have sparked conversations about his possible role in shaping Nigeria’s future leadership.
With less than three years to the next general elections, political positioning is already intensifying across party lines. Analysts say the 2027 elections will be crucial for both the APC and PDP, especially in light of the economic hardship and public dissatisfaction currently being experienced nationwide.
