Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan
As the race towards the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State gathers momentum, political conversations are becoming increasingly centred on one fundamental question: who possesses the competence, experience and vision to preserve the remarkable progress recorded in the last eight years while taking the state to even greater heights?
Leadership succession has always been a defining moment in every democracy. It presents an opportunity not only to elect a new governor but also to determine whether the gains of the past will be consolidated or abandoned. For Oyo State, the decision before the electorate is particularly significant.
History offers an interesting perspective. As the administration of the late former Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, approached its end in 2019, he publicly expressed his desire for Oyo State to continue on the path of development after his tenure. Although Engineer Seyi Makinde was neither his preferred candidate nor a member of his political party, Ajimobi reportedly acknowledged Makinde’s competence and welcomed the fact that the state would be governed by someone he believed possessed the capacity to perform.
Today, Governor Makinde himself is approaching the end of his constitutionally permitted tenure after overseeing one of the most ambitious periods of infrastructure renewal, economic expansion, educational investment and investment promotion in Oyo State’s recent history. Roads have been constructed across the state, the economy has witnessed significant reforms, agriculture has received renewed attention, while the state’s profile has grown internationally as a destination for business and investment.
Against this backdrop, Governor Makinde has thrown his weight behind Bimbo Adekanmbi as his preferred successor under the Alliance People’s Mandate (APM), signalling his confidence in Adekanmbi’s ability to consolidate the achievements of the current administration and provide purposeful leadership for the next phase of Oyo State’s development.
For many observers who believe governance should be driven by competence rather than political calculations alone, Adekanmbi represents a strong option. His academic accomplishments, entrepreneurial background, administrative experience and leadership credentials have earned him recognition both within and outside government circles.
His tenure as Commissioner for Finance during the Ajimobi administration remains one of his strongest credentials. At a challenging period for many state governments, he was associated with financial reforms aimed at strengthening fiscal discipline, improving internally generated revenue and introducing innovative approaches to public finance management.
Beyond public office, Adekanmbi has built an impressive network within the private sector and the international business community. Supporters believe these relationships could help attract greater investments, create employment opportunities and further position Oyo State as a competitive economic destination.
His leadership style also distinguishes him. Widely described as calm, accessible, visionary and deeply committed to public service, Adekanmbi has consistently projected himself as a leader who prioritises dialogue, innovation and practical solutions to societal challenges.
Ultimately, elections should be determined by ideas, competence and the capacity to deliver results. As Oyo State prepares for another democratic transition, voters have the responsibility to evaluate those seeking to lead the state based on their records, vision and ability to build on existing achievements.
For those who believe continuity should be anchored on competence and performance, Governor Makinde’s endorsement of Bimbo Adekanmbi under the Alliance People’s Mandate has undoubtedly added a new dimension to the political conversation. Whether that endorsement ultimately translates into electoral victory will depend on the judgment of the people of Oyo State, whose votes will determine who steers the Pace Setter State into its next chapter of development.
