Agbaakin Benedict Akika, a prominent pillar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, has officially moved to silence growing speculations regarding Governor Seyi Makinde’s political future.
Speaking at a high-profile New Year assembly for the Omituntun Benedict Forum (OBF) at Idi-Ape, Akika described rumors of the Governor’s planned defection to another party as “unfounded, misleading, and the work of political detractors.”
The gathering, which transformed the Akobo-Olorunda Abaa axis into a sea of PDP colors, served as a strategic show of force. Akika emphasized that Governor Makinde remains the “undisputed backbone” of the PDP, not just in Oyo State but across the nation.
“The PDP in Oyo State is united, stable, and focused. There is no leadership crisis. These rumors are sponsored by opponents who are intimidated by the Governor’s rising profile ahead of 2027,” Akika told the crowd of party stalwarts and socio-political groups.
Moving beyond rhetoric, the event signaled the formal start of the 2027 ground game. To ensure the Omituntun mandate remains secure, Agbaakin Akika announced a unique Logistics Intervention:
Daily Transport Sponsorship: Akika will personally fund the daily transportation of 20 OBF members to participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
Ward-Level Activation: He urged members to treat ward meetings as the “frontline” of the upcoming electoral cycle.
The event featured a powerful coalition of support, including:
Hon. Babajide Gabriel (Ibadan North II) and Falana Adebowale (Chairman, Youth Development Agency).
Alhaji Kamorudeen Mudashiru (Chairman, Lagelu LG), who lauded the OBF for being a “people-centered movement” rather than just a political tool.
Representatives from the Nigerian Union of Pensioners and Teachers (NUT), who reaffirmed their 7-year loyalty to the Makinde administration.
The assembly concluded with interfaith prayers and a celebratory dance, marking a unified start to what insiders call the “strategic positioning year” for the PDP in Oyo State.
