The race for the Agodi Government House has taken a fresh dimension as Dr. Debo Akande, a close aide to Governor Seyi Makinde, has hinted at his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.
Speaking during a live broadcast on Splash FM, Akande, who currently serves in a key capacity within the state administration, declared that he possesses the necessary qualifications to lead the Pacesetter State.
When asked directly if he is interested in succeeding his principal, Akande stated: “I have what it takes to become the Governor of Oyo State.”
The declaration comes amid growing permutations over who will take over from Governor Makinde, whose second term expires on May 29, 2027.
Recalling the Governor’s previous stance on his successor, Makinde had suggested that the next leader of the state should be within the age bracket of 50 years, a criterion that has fueled speculations among younger political actors in the state.
Apart from Akande, other names currently making the rounds in the political space include the Chairman of the Oyo State State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Nureni Adeniran; a former Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Bimbo Adekanmbi; and a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Stanley Olajide (Odidiomo).
While Akande stopped short of a formal declaration, his “political” response has further stirred the waters in the Oyo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the broader political landscape as the 436-day countdown to the transition begins to narrow.
“It is meant for the Oyo State people to determine whether I am qualified for that position,” Akande added, maintaining a tactical balance between his current role and his future aspirations.
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