Ibadan, Oyo State — A leading governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has reaffirmed his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, pledging to build on the achievements of Governor Seyi Makinde.

Ajadi made the declaration on Wednesday during the PDP Egbeda Local Government general meeting held at the party secretariat in Ibadan, where stakeholders gathered to discuss party unity and preparations ahead of future elections.

Speaking with journalists before the meeting, Ajadi described himself as a grassroots politician and bona fide PDP member from Osengere Ward 8 in Egbeda LGA.

“I am here to participate in the Egbeda PDP general meeting as a loyal member of our great party,” he said. “I also want to reassure my people of my intention to contest the governorship position in 2027 to continue the good legacy established by Governor Seyi Makinde.”

Confidence in PDP’s 2027 Participation

Addressing concerns over internal challenges within the PDP at the national level, Ajadi expressed confidence that the party would remain a major contender in the 2027 general elections.

“The PDP is central to the democracy we practise today. I am very sure that PDP will be on the ballot in 2027. Nigerians asked for democracy, not a return to military rule. Therefore, a one-party system is not an option for our country,” he said.

He stressed the need to protect democratic institutions, particularly the judiciary, noting that Nigeria’s democracy must continue to operate on fairness, justice and the rule of law.

Call for Unity and National Renewal

The aspirant also called for national unity, urging Nigerians across religious and ethnic lines to embrace peace and collective responsibility, especially during the spiritual seasons of Ramadan and Lent.

“The prayers we offer during Ramadan and Lent should be for peace, unity and positive change in our nation,” Ajadi said. “Muslims, Christians and all Nigerians must remain steadfast in faith and love for one another.”

Party Leaders Rally Support

The meeting drew prominent PDP stakeholders from across Egbeda LGA, reflecting growing grassroots mobilisation ahead of the electoral cycle.

Among those present were Deputy Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Sunkanmi Babalola; Chairman of Egbeda Local Government Council, Hon. Oyedele Sanda; Egbeda PDP Chairman, Ebenezer Olawale Alawe; and Vice Chairman of the council, Hon. Ibrahim Oladebo, popularly known as Simple.

Party leaders emphasised unity within the PDP structure, noting that sustained grassroots participation remains critical to maintaining the party’s strength in Oyo State politics.

Early Mobilisation Ahead of 2027

Political observers say Ajadi’s continued engagement at the grassroots underscores a strategic effort to strengthen party structures ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. With consultations intensifying across local governments, analysts believe early mobilisation by aspirants could shape the dynamics of PDP primaries in the state.

As preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum, Ajadi’s reaffirmation of his ambition signals rising political activity in Oyo State and sets the stage for a potentially competitive governorship race.