Oyo PDP Chieftain Femi Babalola ‘Jogor’ Backs Makinde for 2027 Presidency

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, Babalola commended Makinde’s performance across key sectors in Oyo State, describing him as a credible and competent leader with the capacity to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges. He criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for what he termed “failed and empty promises,” which, he said, have left Nigerians in worsening economic hardship.

“The APC is known for failed and empty promises, a testament to the hunger being experienced across the federation,” he said, stressing that the country urgently needs a leader with fresh ideas and innovative solutions.

Babalola maintained that among all current presidential hopefuls, Governor Makinde stands out as the most capable. “Makinde has all it takes to lead the country. By 2027, he would have completed two terms as governor, with eight years of executive experience that gives him an advantage over many contenders,” he noted.

While acknowledging that no leader can achieve perfection in governance, Babalola praised Makinde for outperforming his predecessors.

On his personal political ambitions, the PDP stalwart hinted at a possible governorship bid in 2027, depending on the quality of aspirants that emerge. “I’m watching those showing interest in the governorship race. If I’m not satisfied with the calibre of candidates, I might be compelled to contest. The state deserves a governor with deep knowledge of Oyo after Makinde’s tenure,” he said.

Babalola emphasized that his support would go only to aspirants committed to fairness and the collective interest of the party, not those merely seeking to exploit the system.

Reflecting on the PDP’s dominance in the state, he pointed out that Oyo has largely remained a PDP stronghold since 2003. “The state has always been PDP. Even when other parties took power, it was only possible with the involvement of PDP members,” he stated.

On the party’s decision to zone the 2027 presidential ticket to the South, Babalola expressed strong support. “If the party has decided to field a southern candidate, it’s good for us. I’m fully in support. Let it be South versus South,” he said.