Key figures within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State have expressed their support for Dr. Debo Akande as the party’s preferred candidate for the upcoming governorship race. This endorsement was announced following a high-level consultative meeting held in Ibadan, where senior party stakeholders convened to discuss the governorship ticket.
Earlier reports had suggested that former commissioner Bimbo Adekanmbi and former local government chairwoman Shared Akinade Fijabi were the leading contenders for the position. However, party insiders dismissed these claims as inaccurate, labeling them as “misleading” and inconsistent with the discussions that took place during the meeting. A source present at the gathering stated that the narrative surrounding Adekanmbi and Fijabi as the final contenders was a “fabrication designed to launder a decision made outside the room.” The source further revealed that Akande consistently led the voting process throughout the consultations, securing three votes on the first day and increasing his tally to four on the second day. When the consultation was expanded to include 21 party stakeholders, Akande received 20 votes, a result that participants described as nearly unanimous.
Attendees of the meeting emphasized Akande’s competence, loyalty to the PDP, and extensive political experience as the primary reasons for their endorsement. Former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Monsurat Sunmonu, openly voiced her support, stating, “The only person who has contributed and sacrificed so much for this government is Dr. Debo Akande.” Sunmonu reportedly maintained her position throughout the discussions, resisting any attempts to elevate Adekanmbi over Akande.
Despite the overwhelming support for Akande, a separate source indicated that some influential interests may be attempting to challenge the consensus in favor of another aspirant. This source noted that such maneuvers could undermine the collective decision made by the stakeholders. Supporters of Akande argue that he remains the most credible and electable option for the PDP in Oyo State. They highlight his record of service, longstanding loyalty to the party, and broad acceptance across grassroots and political structures as evidence of his suitability for the governorship.
The PDP’s internal selection process reflects the factional dynamics that often characterize Nigerian party politics. As the party approaches its primary election, the extent to which Akande’s endorsement will withstand potential internal challenges will be crucial for both the PDP’s prospects in Oyo State and the broader contest for the governorship. The outcome of the PDP primary is likely to set the tone for the party’s campaign strategy ahead of the state election, influencing alliances, voter mobilization efforts, and the overall competitiveness of the race.
