A leading governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has reaffirmed his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election, pledging to build on the achievements of incumbent governor Seyi Makinde.
Ajadi restated his ambition on Wednesday at the PDP Egbeda Local Government general meeting held at the party secretariat in Ibadan. The gathering brought together party leaders, ward executives, grassroots mobilisers, and supporters to deliberate on party cohesion and preparations ahead of future elections.
Addressing journalists before the meeting commenced, Ajadi described himself as a committed grassroots politician and a longstanding member of the PDP from Osengere Ward 8 in Egbeda Local Government Area.
“I am here to participate in the Egbeda Local Government PDP general meeting as a loyal party member,” he said. “I am also using this opportunity to reassure my people of my intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State, with the aim of sustaining and consolidating the legacy of Governor Seyi Makinde.”
Responding to concerns over internal challenges facing the PDP at the national level, Ajadi expressed confidence that the party would remain a formidable force in the 2027 general elections.
“I choose not to speak negatively,” he said. “I believe the fathers and mothers of democracy in Nigeria will not allow anything that undermines our democratic ideals.”
He stressed that the PDP remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic evolution. “The PDP is central to the democracy we practise today. I am certain the PDP will appear on the ballot in 2027. Nigerians asked for democracy, not a return to military rule, and a one-party system is not an option,” Ajadi added.
The aspirant also underscored the importance of protecting democratic institutions, particularly the judiciary, noting that Nigeria’s democracy must continue to be guided by fairness, justice, and the rule of law.
“By the grace of God, Nigerians will determine their future through democratic means, and I am confident that the PDP will reclaim national leadership in 2027,” he said.
Ajadi further called for national unity, urging Nigerians across religious and ethnic lines to embrace peace and shared responsibility, especially during the sacred periods of Ramadan and Lent.
“The prayers we offer during Ramadan and Lent should be for peace, unity, and positive change in our country,” he said. “Muslims, Christians, and all Nigerians must remain united in faith and love for one another. Together, we can change the narrative of Nigeria in 2027.”
The meeting drew several prominent PDP leaders and stakeholders from across Egbeda Local Government Area, reflecting growing grassroots mobilisation ahead of the electoral cycle.
Notable attendees included Deputy Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly Sunkanmi Babalola; Chairman of Egbeda Local Government Council Oyedele Sanda; Egbeda PDP Chairman Ebenezer Olawale Alawe; and Vice Chairman of Egbeda Local Government Council Ibrahim Oladebo, popularly known as Simple.
Other party stalwarts present included Busari Olayemi, Elder Caleb Oyelese, Liadi Busari, Mrs. Jumoke Lawal (popularly known as Iya Pineapple), Hon. Lukmon Akinpelu, as well as ward executives and grassroots organisers.
Party leaders at the meeting emphasised the importance of unity and sustained grassroots engagement, noting that these remain critical to preserving the PDP’s dominance in Oyo State politics.
Political observers noted that Ajadi’s continued engagement at the local government level signals a deliberate grassroots-driven strategy aimed at strengthening party structures ahead of the PDP primaries.
As political consultations intensify across the state, analysts say early mobilisation by aspirants could shape the internal dynamics of the PDP ahead of the 2027 elections, with Ajadi’s reaffirmed ambition adding momentum to what is expected to be a competitive governorship race in Oyo State.