Every political circle, especially as elections draw near, becomes a theatre of ambition, persuasion, and quiet struggle for relevance. In Nigeria, and particularly in Oyo State, the early build-up to the 2027 elections is already revealing a familiar pattern: many who desire power are beginning to surface, but not all who surface are ready to lead. Between genuine aspirants, political pretenders, serious contestants, and eventual candidates, the road to 2027 will separate mere ambition from proven capacity, and noise from substance.
In the last few weeks, consultations have intensified quietly across the state, with political actors moving from one stakeholder to another, testing acceptance and negotiating relevance. Meetings are being held behind closed doors, alliances are being explored, and loyalties are subtly being reshaped. It is still early, but beneath the calm surface, the political machinery is already in motion, deliberate, strategic, and, in many cases, revealing of who is truly prepared and who is merely positioning.
In Oyo State, the race to Agodi is already taking shape in a manner that many had long anticipated. What was once broadly perceived as a straightforward contest between the influence of Seyi Makinde and the opposition strength of the All Progressives Congress is gradually evolving into something more complex. The emerging reality suggests that beyond party lines, internal ambitions, shifting loyalties, and competing interests within and across political camps may ultimately redefine the path to 2027.
The perceived backing of the Presidency often described within political circles as the Abuja caucus for the current Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, was temporarily thrown into uncertainty when he did not resign by the March 31 deadline tied to expectations for political appointees with electoral ambitions. That development introduced a layer of doubt into what many had considered a settled calculation within the All Progressives Congress. At the same time, the absence of Sharafadeen Alli from his anticipated coronation as Oba amid speculations of his emergence as a preferred candidate has further complicated the narrative, reinforcing the fluid and unpredictable nature of the race as alignments continue to shift behind the scenes.
It has not been easy on the side of the incumbent to clearly name or position a successor from the numerous aspirants jostling to take over from him. The internal strains within the People's Democratic Party, coupled with persistent rumours of possible defection, have only added layers of uncertainty to an already delicate calculation. If not properly managed, these developments risk fragmenting the existing structure, weakening cohesion, and ultimately creating openings that could alter the balance of power ahead of 2027.
Aspirants from both ends are not much different. The APC relies heavily on the President for endorsement, while others look to the governor for support. So entrenched is this pattern that many have adopted “Omititun 3.0,” signaling a continuation of Seyi Makinde’s style of governance. One would expect fresh ideas, innovative policies and new approaches to leadership but what is emerging instead is a politics of imitation, where continuity is valued over creativity, and the race for 2027 risks becoming a contest of personalities rather than a debate on progress.
As of today, almost everyone in the state now wants to become governor even paperweight politicians who cannot deliver their own wards. They are drawn to the glamour, the honour, and everything associated with the office. But if you ask the incumbent, he can hardly wait to hand over.
Leading a state like Oyo with its diverse interests, competing groups, and complex expectations is no small task.
Unfortunately for whoever succeeds the incumbent, there is already a big shoe to fill. The standard of governance has been raised, and no one can afford to do less than what we have seen. It will take more than ambition or noise; it will require capacity, structure, experience, and a deep understanding of the people to sustain and possibly surpass the current level of leadership.
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