Makinde Charges Advisory Council to Screen PDP Governorship Candidates

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has given the Advisory Council the responsibility to engage with and evaluate individuals aspiring to represent the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2027 governorship elections.

According to sources, the Advisory Council, chaired by Chief Bolaji Ayorinde (SAN), has been tasked to connect with all PDP gubernatorial candidates and to provide recommendations in support of the Omituntun agenda’s continuation.

This initiative aims to give every aspirant a platform to present their proposals while promoting fairness in the process.

It was revealed that invitation letters have been distributed to all involved aspirants, with several already appearing before the council. Among those who have attended are Hon. Adedeji Olajide, Dr. Nureni Adeniran, Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi, Dr. Debo Akande, and Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Debo Ogundoyin.

Ayorinde clarified that this initiative should not be seen as a formal screening but rather as an interactive session aimed at comprehending the candidates’ visions for the state.

“It is not a screening exercise. We are facilitating conversations between the Governor’s Advisory Council and the candidates. We aim to avoid any imposition from external influences,” he stated.

“With the governor’s support, the council is engaging with all aspirants to gauge their plans for the state. They have responded favorably, and there are some impressive candidates in the mix,” he added.

He noted that nine aspirants have already met with the council, with expectations for additional candidates to participate in future discussions.

Ayorinde emphasized that the council lacks the power to disqualify any aspirants, reaffirming its advisory role.

He expressed confidence that the governor will also consult with various stakeholders, including party leaders and traditional authorities, to ensure that the eventual candidate has broad support.

“We want to prevent a scenario where the selected candidate doesn’t enjoy the acceptance of stakeholders. Our job is to engage with the aspirants and advise the governor, who is determined to maintain a transparent and fair process,” he concluded.