Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has given the clearest indication yet that he may endorse one of his current team members as his preferred successor in the 2027 governorship election.

Speaking during the Stakeholders’ Consultative and Engagement Meeting on the 2026 Budget held at the Ogunlana Hall, University of Ibadan, the governor said continuity was vital to sustaining the developmental strides recorded under his administration.

Makinde noted that if someone from within his cabinet were to be presented as his preferred successor, it would be because the person had been thoroughly evaluated and shared the administration’s long-term vision for the state.

“If we put anybody forward in our team, what it means is that we have evaluated that individual,” Makinde said. “It wouldn’t be about the individual per se. If, within the team, we have a roadmap for continued development of Oyo State for 2027 and beyond, and we have people within that team who have already bought into it, that would be the best path forward.”

The governor, whose second term ends in 2027, however clarified that while he might make recommendations, the ultimate decision on who becomes his successor would rest with the people of Oyo State.

“The decision on who would be the next governor rests with the people of Oyo State. We will make our own submission to the people, because Oyo State has gone beyond stunt politics. Maybe it used to happen in the past. Now, Oyo State people will ask you questions,” he said.

Makinde’s remarks have already generated political interest within the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and among opposition parties, as speculation grows over which member of his cabinet might be positioned for the top job.

The governor had earlier, in January, hinted that his preferred successor would likely be a younger politician drawn from his current political structure — a move that could shape the power dynamics and succession politics in Oyo State ahead of 2027.