The race for the governorship of Oyo State ahead of the 2027 general elections is gradually gaining traction, with emerging opinion polls pointing to growing support for an Ibadan-born Muslim candidate as a preferred successor to Governor Seyi Makinde.
Findings from recent informal polls conducted among residents and indigenes across parts of the state indicate an increasing call for an Ibadan Muslim governor, a preference respondents say is rooted in the need for religious balance, tolerance and inclusive leadership in Oyo State.
According to those surveyed, the next governor should ideally be a core Ibadan indigene with a deep understanding of the city’s culture, history and political dynamics, as well as a track record of contributing meaningfully to the development of Ibadanland and the wider state.
Interestingly, respondents noted that such a candidate does not necessarily have to be a long-standing or widely known political heavyweight. Many cited the emergence of Governor Makinde himself, who was relatively unknown in mainstream politics before winning the governorship, as evidence that credibility and competence can outweigh political fame.
Support for the idea of an Ibadan Muslim governor was reported to cut across different segments of society. Stakeholders said to be aligned with this view include market leaders, commercial transport operators, artisans, youth groups and members of the business community.
Traditional institutions were also mentioned among the supporters, with Mogajis, Baales and other community chiefs reportedly lending their voices to discussions around fair representation and continuity in governance.
Prominent sons and daughters of Ibadanland, alongside influential political actors within and outside major parties, were also said to be part of the conversations shaping early permutations ahead of 2027.
Advocates of the position argued that Oyo State’s political history supports the call for balance in leadership. They noted that the state has been governed by both Muslims and Christians over the years, including Lam Adesina (Muslim), Rashidi Ladoja (Muslim), Adebayo Alao-Akala (Christian), Abiola Ajimobi (Muslim) and the incumbent, Seyi Makinde (Christian).
According to them, this pattern of alternation has helped to sustain religious harmony in the state and should not be disrupted as Oyo approaches another transition.
The polls further emphasised the need for a leader who not only understands Ibadan’s cultural heritage but is also committed to addressing contemporary challenges such as infrastructure development, job creation, security and economic growth.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, political observers believe that more aspirants will begin to signal their intentions, while debates around zoning, religious representation and power rotation are expected to intensify across the state.
Despite the growing momentum around the polls, analysts caution that opinion surveys only provide a snapshot of public sentiment and may evolve as political campaigns take shape and party primaries approach.
Ultimately, observers stress that the final decision lies with the electorate, noting that political parties will first determine their flag bearers before voters decide who occupies the Agodi Government House in 2027.
As Oyo State gradually enters the next election cycle, stakeholders continue to emphasise that unity, competence and sustainable development should remain the guiding principles for voters, regardless of religious or regional considerations.
