As political activities ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State intensify, a growing debate is emerging over the record of the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde and what voters expect from the next government.
While supporters of the governor continue to highlight projects and achievements through traditional and social media platforms, critics argue that the political conversation in the state should move beyond online campaigns to a broader assessment of conditions in communities across Oyo State.
For the opposition voices, the central question is straightforward: after more than seven years in office, what tangible improvements have residents experienced?
Critics of the administration have raised concerns about the condition of some inner-city and rural roads, particularly in parts of the Oke-Ogun and Ibarapa areas. They argue that poor road infrastructure continues to make transportation difficult for residents and farmers, with inadequate access to markets contributing to economic challenges and post-harvest losses.
Healthcare has also become part of the political conversation. Some critics claim that several primary healthcare centres require rehabilitation, improved equipment, adequate supplies and additional personnel.
Security is another major concern. Residents and political observers have expressed anxiety over reports of kidnapping, cult-related violence and other criminal activities in parts of the state, with critics questioning whether existing security measures are sufficient to protect communities.
The state of LG administration has equally attracted criticism, with opponents alleging that the third tier of government has been weakened and deprived of the autonomy and resources required to deliver basic services effectively.
An Ibadan-based political observer, who spoke on the condition of the state, said residents expected more after two terms of the current administration.
«“After over seven years of what we consider maladministration, this is not what Oyo State citizens deserve,” the observer said.»
2027 and the Succession Question
Attention is now increasingly turning to the 2027 governorship election, when Governor Makinde will be ineligible to seek a third consecutive term under the constitutional two-term limit.
This has intensified speculation about the political direction of the governor and the possibility of his supporting a preferred successor.
Critics have alleged that attempts to promote certain potential successors are designed to preserve the political influence of the current administration beyond 2027. Among the names mentioned in political discussions is Bimbo Adekanbi, who has reportedly been associated with the Apomu Kpaki Party (APM).
Those allegations, however, remain political claims and would require independent evidence before they could be treated as established facts.
The emerging political contest is also being fought heavily online, with supporters and opponents exchanging competing narratives about the administration’s record. Critics accuse political actors of using social-media campaigns to shape public opinion, while supporters of the government are expected to continue defending its achievements.
But opposition voices insist that social-media activity will not determine the election.
“Social-media goons can keep focusing on propaganda, but the people are wiser now,” one critic said. “They want to see inner and rural roads, hospitals, functional local governments, well-equipped primary healthcare centres, projects that have real impact on citizens and improved security.”
What Do Oyo Voters Want?
Across the state’s major communities, voters are increasingly asking questions about issues that directly affect their daily lives.
From Ibadan to Saki, Oyo, Ibarapa, Eruwa and Ogbomoso, the questions being raised include: Are the roads motorable? Are healthcare facilities functioning? Are communities safe? Are jobs available? Is local government delivering services?
There are also questions about specific government initiatives and interventions.
Critics have questioned the effectiveness of the Light-Up Oyo programme and have called for greater transparency concerning government interventions following the Bodija explosion, including claims circulating about a proposed ₦30 billion relief package for victims. Such claims and the status of any specific allocation would need to be established through official records.
Residents affected by road projects and other government interventions have also called for greater attention to compensation, safety and the welfare of communities affected by public works.
Ultimately, the 2027 election may test whether voters are persuaded more by political messaging or by their direct experience of government.
For many residents, the decisive issues are likely to be practical: infrastructure, healthcare, security, employment, local government services and the overall cost and quality of living.
As the political season gathers momentum, candidates and political parties will have the opportunity to present their records, defend their policies and offer competing visions for Oyo State.
The final verdict, however, will belong to the voters.
BSA Voice of Reason Media
