A former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain in Oyo State, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Bisi Olopoeyan, has declared his decision to align politically with Governor Seyi Makinde ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Olopoeyan made this known during an interview on “Bosenlo,” a programme hosted by Temitayo Oyeladun on Lagelu 96.7 FM in Ibadan. He disclosed that discussions are already underway and affirmed his readiness to join forces with the governor, regardless of the political platform Makinde may choose for the forthcoming elections.
According to Olopoeyan, he and his loyalists across the 33 local government areas of Oyo State are prepared to follow Makinde to any political party, should the governor decide to leave the PDP.
He expressed confidence in Makinde’s political strength, noting that the governor stands a strong chance of influencing the emergence of his successor, even if he contests under a different party. Olopoeyan added that the political structure and support base of the governor would play a crucial role in securing victory for candidates aligned with him in the 2027 elections.
Commenting on the opposition, Olopoeyan suggested that internal dynamics within the All Progressives Congress (APC) could inadvertently boost Makinde’s chances, particularly if the party fields what he described as a weak governorship candidate.
He also weighed in on the leadership crisis within the PDP in Oyo State, criticising the faction led by Alhaji Azeem Gbolarunmi. Olopoeyan described it as unfortunate that Gbolarunmi, whom he accused of pursuing personal political ambition, still lays claim to the party’s leadership while allegedly nursing governorship aspirations.
Furthermore, he alleged that the PDP in the state had been influenced by factions linked to former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, noting that internal disagreements and personal interests had contributed to the current divisions within the party.