By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State have reportedly begun strategic consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with indications emerging that the party is working towards a consensus arrangement aimed at strengthening unity and consolidating its political dominance across the state.
This development was disclosed by prominent politician and gubernatorial aspirant, Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, during an interaction with journalists on Thursday, May 7, where he expressed confidence that Governor Seyi Makinde and members of what he described as “Team Seyi Makinde” would emerge victorious in the 2027 elections.
Ajadi stated that PDP leaders, during a closed-door meeting attended by Governor Makinde, the state PDP chairman, and other influential stakeholders, unanimously resolved that he should contest for the Oyo Central Senatorial seat rather than continue with his gubernatorial ambition.
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According to him, the leaders emphasized that his wealth of experience, political exposure, grassroots popularity, and developmental vision would make him a strong voice for Oyo Central at the National Assembly.
“They told me that the Senate remains a strategic platform where I can contribute immensely to the growth and integration of Oyo State and Nigeria at large through purposeful lawmaking and quality representation,” Ajadi said.
“We will take all political positions in Oyo State without leaving any behind in 2027,” Ajadi declared, expressing confidence in Team Makinde.
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“They said my passion for youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, education, industrial growth, and infrastructural development would be better amplified from the Red Chamber. Their position was that Oyo State needs experienced and energetic leaders in the National Assembly who can attract federal presence and influence policies that directly benefit the people.”
Ajadi further revealed that the leaders stressed the need for party unity and collective sacrifice ahead of the elections.
“Politics is about service, loyalty, and strategic planning. The leaders made it clear that the interest of the party and the development of Oyo State must come first. I am a loyal party man, and I respect the decision of the leaders,” he added.
However, Ajadi also disclosed during the interview that he has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party and has concluded plans to contest for the Senate under another political platform ahead of the 2027 elections.
Although he declined to mention the name of the political party he intends to join, the politician hinted that consultations with political associates and supporters across Oyo State and beyond were ongoing.
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“I have moved on politically and consultations are ongoing with leaders and supporters. At the appropriate time, Nigerians and the good people of Oyo State will know the political platform on which I intend to pursue my senatorial ambition,” Ajadi stated.
He maintained that his political movement was driven by his desire to continue contributing meaningfully to governance, youth development, economic empowerment, and quality representation.
Party sources disclosed that the earlier consensus arrangement was designed to reduce internal friction, foster harmony among aspirants, and present formidable candidates capable of retaining and expanding the PDP’s political structure across the three senatorial districts.
According to the arrangement, the proposed consensus candidates for the Senate were said to include:
Oyo Central: Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo
Oyo South: Adedeji Stanley Olajide
Oyo North: Shina Abiola Peller
Sources within the party also indicated that former Commissioner for Finance in Oyo State, Bimbo Adekanmbi, is being considered as the party’s preferred governorship candidate.
Ajadi, while speaking on the future of governance in Oyo State, declared that the achievements of the Makinde administration had positioned the state for continued political and economic growth.
He praised Governor Makinde for what he described as visionary leadership, infrastructural transformation, reforms in education and healthcare, and efforts toward improving the economy of the state.
“Governor Seyi Makinde has changed the political and developmental narrative of Oyo State. The people can see the roads, schools, healthcare improvements, and economic reforms. Good governance will always speak for itself,” Ajadi stated.
He also assured his supporters that his political ambition remains focused on service to the people.
“Our goal is not just about elections but about sustaining development, empowering young people, supporting businesses, and ensuring that every part of Oyo State benefits from quality representation and good governance,” he said.
Political observers believe Ajadi’s growing influence, particularly among youths and grassroots supporters, has continued to strengthen his relevance within the political landscape of Oyo State.
Known for his philanthropic activities, support for entrepreneurship, and active involvement in community development initiatives, Ajadi has increasingly become one of the notable political voices in the state’s evolving political environment.
The latest development is expected to generate fresh political discussions and realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections in Oyo State.
