Ibadan buzzed with political energy on Friday as striking banners projecting Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, as a potential 2027 presidential contender took over the surroundings of the Adamasingba Stadium—the venue of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention scheduled for November 15–16.
Delegates arriving at the stadium were met by a series of boldly designed posters and banners carrying Makinde’s image and campaign-style messages. One banner, attributed to a group called Lana Fun Seyi, proclaimed: “Seyi Makinde for President.” Another, credited to Fapetu Stephen from Ido Local Government, assured passersby: “Relax, Seyi Makinde will fix Nigeria 2027.”
The displays sparked renewed conversations among party faithful and political observers, many of whom had followed months of speculation about the governor’s next political move. Although Makinde has long been rumored to be weighing a presidential bid, he has maintained that any declaration would come “at the appropriate time.” He has repeatedly dismissed earlier assumptions as mere “unsolicited commentary,” insisting that when he is ready to speak, he will do so without prompting.
Beyond the Makinde-themed banners, the stadium and its environs were lit up with campaign materials for other PDP aspirants seeking positions in the next National Working Committee (NWC).
Posters for former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Turaki, who is vying for the national chairmanship, were prominently displayed. Supporters of ex–Deputy National Chairman, Taofeek Arapaja, also rolled out large posters marketing his bid for the position of National Secretary.
The mix of colour, campaign slogans and support-group branding created a festival-like backdrop as thousands of delegates poured into Ibadan for what is set to be a decisive gathering.
The convention will usher in a new NWC responsible for repositioning the PDP as it gears up for the 2027 general elections.
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With the presidential election cycle inching closer, Friday’s banner blitz added fresh intrigue to the unfolding political dynamics—especially around Governor Makinde, whose silence on 2027 continues to fuel anticipation both within and outside the PDP.