Makinde Names Bimbo Adekanmbi Preferred Successor for 2027

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has publicly declared Bimbo Adekanmbi, the governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), as his preferred successor ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

The declaration follows weeks of speculation surrounding Makinde’s alleged endorsement of Adekanmbi, especially after the governor hinted at a possible 2027 presidential ambition on May 14.

At a joint mega rally organised by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the APM in Ibadan, Makinde and Adekanmbi were seen together alongside party officials, further fueling rumours of political alignment.

Speaking on Thursday during Adekanmbi’s official unveiling as the APM consensus governorship candidate, Makinde openly endorsed him, describing him as the face of “Omituntun 3.0.”

The governor thanked supporters for backing his administration and the current political arrangement in Oyo State, which he suggested could extend beyond the state.

“You have experienced Omituntun 1.0 and 2.0. If you enjoyed them, then this is Omituntun 3.0,” Makinde said while raising APM face caps with Adekanmbi before cheering supporters.

Makinde, however, advised Adekanmbi against inheriting his political battles, urging him to create his own leadership path while building on the achievements of the current administration.

“I have told Bimbo not to inherit my enemies. He should chart his own course. I am human and capable of making mistakes like everyone else,” the governor said.

He added that Adekanmbi should sustain and improve on the administration’s achievements for the benefit of Oyo residents.