By Oladele Ogunsola

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has given the green light to members of his administration with political ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging them to pursue their aspirations on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) while assuring them of his support.
The governor also asked interested aspirants to publicly declare their intentions without fear, dismissing concerns over the internal crisis rocking the party.
Makinde gave the directive during the Oyo State Government’s 2026 Iftar programme held at the frontage of the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.
Responding to claims that he had not released political appointees in his government to pursue elective offices despite the release of the election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the governor said aspirants were free to begin their political campaigns.
“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,” Makinde said.
“So, henceforth, you are free. Whoever wants to contest for any position should 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.”
He, however, stressed that his eventual support for any aspirant would depend on their loyalty, commitment to the people, and dedication to the development of Oyo State.
Makinde also used the occasion to appreciate Muslims in the state for their prayers, cooperation, and continued support for his administration, noting that their goodwill had contributed significantly to the state’s development and progress.
Earlier in his lecture at the event, guest speaker Sheik Fadilat Muideen Onihantu commended the governor for what he described as his uncommon leadership qualities and commitment to serving God, his family, and the people of the state.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Daud Makanjuola Akinola, praised Makinde for consistently hosting the Iftar programme since the beginning of his administration and for his unwavering support for the Muslim community in Oyo State.
He also called for continued prayers for the state and the country.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Deputy Governor Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal expressed appreciation to the governor and urged Muslims across the state to sustain their support for the government.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former governor of Oyo State and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; former Deputy Governor Hamid Gbadamosi; and the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo Ogundoyin, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi.
Also present were the state Chief Judge, Justice Iyabo Yerima; member representing Ibadan South-West/North-West Federal Constituency, Hon. Dhikirulahi Olajide; and Hon. Shina Oyedeji, who represents Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa Federal Constituency.
Other dignitaries included the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde; President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Tajudeen Abdulganiyu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba (Dr) Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni; Deputy Chief of Staff, Hon. Kazeem Adeniyi; and the Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal.
Co-Chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Elder Wole Oyelese; Chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Sheik Hashim Atere; Oyo State PDP Deputy Chairman, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke; and Chairman of Local Government Chairmen in the state, Hon. Sikiru Sanda, were also in attendance.
Muslim scholars, traditional rulers, members of the League of Imams and Alfas, service commanders, commissioners, permanent secretaries, and other top government officials were among the dignitaries present at the event.