The political chessboard of Oyo State is already buzzing with intricate moves and calculated gambits, even with the Oyo 2027 governorship election seemingly a distant horizon. Recent events suggest a brewing storm as key players position themselves. This reveals a complex web of alliances, rivalries, and strategic manoeuvring that promises a fascinating contest for the state’s highest office.
The Coronation Controversy
At the heart of the unfolding drama is the incumbent Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde, whose actions are being keenly observed. A significant development is the governor’s perceived attempt to outmanoeuvre Senator Sharafadeen Alli, a formidable figure within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a likely consensus candidate for the opposition.
The move involves the controversial “crowning” of Senator Alli as a beaded-crown-wearing Oba in absentia, alongside his current position as the Ekarun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland. This unusual elevation, widely seen as a political manoeuvre, has been met with scepticism by Alli himself.
Speaking at a recent meeting with Ogbomoso stakeholders of the APC, Alli did not mince words. He described the incident as mere “drama” and a thinly veiled attempt by the government to “syphon funds.” He claimed:
“The whopping N1.5 billion allegedly expended on the coronation ceremony could have been channelled to other meaningful things.”
Oyo 2027 Governorship Election: Internal Strife and Shifting Alliances
While acknowledging their shared Ibadan heritage, Alli firmly asserted that there is no personal animosity between him and the governor. Instead, he pointed fingers at unseen forces, stating that “some people are pushing the governor,” and significantly, that “some of the people are within the APC.” This revelation hints at an Oyo APC internal crisis, adding another layer of complexity to the scenario.
Further complicating the matrix is Governor Makinde’s recent rapprochement with Alhaji Olopoeyan, a seasoned political strategist. Their reconciliation was followed by Olopoeyan’s high-profile visit to Mrs Florence Ajimobi, the widow of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi. This visit has ignited speculation that Mrs Ajimobi might not be pleased with Senator Alli emerging as the consensus candidate. Such a scenario could fracture the opposition, potentially creating an opening for Makinde’s camp.
Rumours of Impeachment and Dethronement
The stakes of the Oyo 2027 governorship election continue to rise with allegations from former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose. He claimed Makinde is making efforts to dethrone Olubadan Oba Rashidi Ladoja for his refusal to attend the coronation. While the state government dismissed this as an unfounded rumour, a Yoruba adage reminds us there is “no fire without smoke.”
Conversely, accusations have surfaced that the federal government is planning to impeach Governor Seyi Makinde. Hon. Gbenga Oyekola recently claimed that Speaker Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin was pressured to join the APC to facilitate political shifts, an offer the Speaker reportedly declined.
As Oyo State inches closer to 2027, the “many colours” of political scheming are becoming apparent. The coming months will reveal the true intentions of these key actors in the Pacesetter State.
