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2027: Makinde’s Advisory Council Member Endorses Oriyomi as Next Oyo Gov

IBADAN — Fresh political tension has gripped the Oyo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following the shock endorsement of popular broadcaster, Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat, as the next Governor of the state by a serving member of Governor Seyi Makinde’s Advisory Council.

The endorsement, which occurred during a public event in Ibadan over the weekend, has sparked intense drama within the ruling party, disrupting the calculated silence many stakeholders have maintained regarding the 2027 succession plan.

The “Anointed” Shockwave

Oriyomi Hamzat, the Chairman of Agidigbo FM and a long-time ally of the Governor, recently declared his intention to vie for the Agodi Government House. However, the campaign took a controversial turn when the Advisory Council member—whose role typically involves guiding the Governor on sensitive state matters—publicly threw their weight behind the media mogul.

Eyewitnesses report that the council member described Hamzat as “the best man to continue Makinde’s legacy,” a statement that immediately triggered murmurs and visible discomfort among other party chieftains present.

“This is a direct challenge to the party structure,” a PDP chieftain who requested anonymity stated. “For a member of the Governor’s inner circle to single-handedly anoint a successor this early is not just reckless; it is a recipe for chaos.”

A House Divided?

The endorsement comes at a time when Governor Makinde has kept his succession cards close to his chest. Political analysts view the move as a potential fracture in the Governor’s camp.

  • The Loyalist Factor: Hamzat played a critical role in Makinde’s electoral victories in 2019 and 2023, using his media influence to sway grassroots support.
  • The Establishment Pushback: Traditional politicians within the PDP are reportedly unhappy that a “technocrat” and media practitioner is attempting to jump the queue ahead of experienced party loyalists.

The Race Heats Up

Oriyomi Hamzat’s declaration has now officially blown the lid off the 2027 race. By securing the backing of a high-ranking advisory council member, he has signaled that his ambition is not merely a social media stunt but a coordinated political project.

Supporters of the broadcaster argue that his philanthropy and “street credibility” make him the only viable candidate to retain the state for the PDP. Conversely, critics argue that governance requires administrative experience, not just popularity.

Governor Makinde has yet to officially react to the development, but insiders suggest that an emergency meeting of the State Working Committee may be convened to address the growing factionalization.