During Sunday’s edition of the renowned political program Agbami Òṣèlú on Fresh FM, political temperatures soared as an APC stalwart, Chief Akinade Fijabi, shared honest insights on the unfolding permutations ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.
The program host asked a direct and critical question:
“If the APC governorship ticket is eventually given to either Senator Teslim Folarin or Chief Bayo Adelabu, the current Minister of Power, does that mean the PDP should just go and sleep because their candidate is already seen as a winner by the people?”
Chief Fijabi, known for his grassroots reach and political maturity, responded with a tone of honesty not often found in today’s partisan discussions. He said: “I don’t know about that. But I am a typical Ibadan man, 70 years of age. With the level of achievements recorded by His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Abiodun Makinde, in governance, it will be very difficult for any political party to defeat whoever he anoints as his successor.”
Chief Fijabi didn’t just speak in general terms. He highlighted specific projects that Governor Makinde has undertaken, developments that have significantly shaped public opinion and the state’s landscape. Among his references were ; The University of Ibadan junction, which he described as “like something you’d see abroad,” testifying to the transformation of that critical spot into a modern, traffic-efficient, and aesthetically appealing gateway to the city.
Road infrastructure across key areas like Orita Aperin and Oranyan, areas that had previously suffered from neglect but have now received long-overdue attention and rehabilitation.
To Chief Fijabi, these achievements are more than projects; they are legacies that will form the foundation of political loyalty in the coming elections.
What made Chief Fijabi’s comments more remarkable was the fact that they came from an elder statesman of the opposition APC. It was a moment of rare political maturity, one where performance was acknowledged over party rivalry.
His statement reinforced a growing belief that in Oyo State politics, governance performance now holds more weight than party identity or propaganda. In a state known for its politically sophisticated electorate, sentiments are increasingly shaped by what leaders have done not just what they promise to do.
Chief Fijabi’s submission sends a clear signal: any political party that seeks to win the 2027 gubernatorial election must present more than just a big name or political slogan, it must match or exceed the legacy that Governor Makinde is building. And whoever Governor Makinde supports may enjoy the people’s goodwill, provided the achievements continue to resonate with daily realities.
In the words of many political observers, “Makinde’s structure is more than political, it is built on physical evidence that people can see, use, and benefit from every day.”
The 2027 election in Oyo State is still far off, but the battle lines are already taking shape. With strong contenders like Senator Teslim Folarin and Chief Bayo Adelabu in the mix, APC remains a formidable party. However, as Chief Akinade Fijabi rightly pointed out, Governor Seyi Makinde’s scorecard may prove to be the most decisive factor in determining who occupies the Agodi Government House next.
Only time will tell but one thing is certain: performance will speak louder than promises.
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