Table of Contents
Table of Contents
By Lawal Akinkunmi Monsur
The political landscape in Oyo State is rapidly shifting, with significant tremors now shaking the foundations of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Reports suggest that Governor Seyi Makinde may be leaning towards the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a potential fragmentation within what was once a firmly united PDP in the state.
APC’s Strategic Moment in Oyo
This emerging political upheaval presents a critical opening for the All Progressives Congress (APC) to reclaim influence in Oyo State. However, capitalizing on this opportunity demands a cohesive, well-planned approach from the party’s leadership and members.
Internal divisions and personal ambitions must be set aside. The APC’s priority should be to identify and rally behind a gubernatorial candidate who is not only widely accepted but also commands respect and has strong appeal across the diverse communities of Oyo State.
Beyond Geography: The Need for a Unifying Candidate
As a committed advocate for the APC’s resurgence in 2027, I stress that the candidate’s origin-whether from Ibadan, Ogbomoso, Oke-Ogun, Oyo, or Ibarapa-is secondary to their ability to connect with voters. The party requires a figure who can inspire confidence, articulate the aspirations of the people, and restore faith in the APC’s vision for progress.
Voters today are more discerning than ever before. The era when party loyalty alone guaranteed electoral success has passed. The electorate now evaluates candidates based on their track record, vision, and capacity to deliver tangible results.
Analyzing Voting Trends: Lessons from Recent Elections
In the 2023 presidential election, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu secured the highest vote count in the South West from Oyo State, reflecting strong grassroots support. Despite this, there remains a widespread perception that Oyo has not yet reaped proportional benefits from this political backing-a sentiment that must be addressed moving forward.
Examining the presidential election data reveals a telling trend:
- 2019 Presidential Election:
APC – 365,229 votes
PDP – 366,690 votes - 2023 Presidential Election:
APC – 449,884 votes
PDP – 182,977 votes
These figures underscore the significant impact a strong gubernatorial candidate has on the party’s performance at the federal level. Voters clearly differentiate between local leadership qualities and party affiliation, often allowing the appeal of a governorship candidate to influence their presidential vote.
Preparing for 2027: A Call for Unity and Vision
With the 2027 elections on the horizon and the current political volatility nationwide, the APC must recalibrate its strategy in Oyo State. To maintain or improve upon the 2023 voter turnout, President Tinubu’s camp must back a candidate who embodies unity, resonates deeply with grassroots supporters, and bridges internal party divides.
This moment calls for pragmatic decision-making rather than favoritism or factionalism. The APC’s objective is clear: to ensure it governs Oyo State come 2027.
The political chessboard is set. The PDP’s cracks are widening, the electorate is attentive, and the opportunity is ripe. Success hinges on the APC’s ability to select the right candidate, mobilize effectively, and present a compelling vision that aligns with the people’s aspirations.
If the APC navigates this juncture wisely, Oyo State will once again be a beacon of progressive governance. Failure to do so risks repeating past mistakes, with consequences that history will remember unfavorably.
Lawal Akinkunmi Monsur reports from Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
