Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said he will unveil his preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election before the end of the first week of May, amid heightened political activities across the state.

There are indications that politically-conscious stakeholders may have to wait a little longer to know the governor’s choice and his broader political direction as consultations intensify ahead of the next general election.

Makinde disclosed this in a weekend newsletter, noting that he has been engaging key stakeholders, including traditional rulers, elders and religious leaders, as part of efforts to arrive at a widely acceptable decision on succession.

According to him, the consultation process has already produced several front-runners, though he stressed that no individual has been endorsed.

The governor also dismissed speculation that he had secretly adopted any aspirant, insisting that the process remains open and consultative.

“We are approaching that point of decision. I have been consulting widely with our elders, fathers of faith and other critical stakeholders, and I remain fully aware of the responsibility this decision carries,” Makinde said.

On the platform for the 2027 election, the governor said his decision would be influenced by the outcome of an impending Supreme Court judgment relating to the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).

He explained that clarity on the political platform would be provided once the court delivers its ruling.

“There have also been questions about the platform on which we will proceed. For now, we await the decision of the Supreme Court regarding our party. Once the decision is delivered, we will communicate our next steps clearly,” he added.