Adekanmbi seeks Ayefele’s support for governorship, vows to continue Makinde’s legacy
By Adejayan Gbenga
A former Commissioner for Finance in Oyo State, Abimbola Adekanmbi, has pledged to sustain and expand the developmental projects initiated by Governor Seyi Makinde if elected governor in 2027.
Adekanmbi made the pledge on Monday during a courtesy visit to lyrical icon Yinka Ayefele, founder and chairman of Fresh FM Nigeria, in Ibadan. The visit was part of his ongoing political consultations and stakeholder engagements ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Oyo State.
Although the political platform for his ambition has yet to be officially declared amid ongoing alignments within the state’s political space, Adekanmbi is believed to have emerged as a leading consensus governorship aspirant within the camp of Governor Makinde in the Peoples Democratic Party.
Speaking during the meeting, Adekanmbi described Ayefele as an elder brother and longtime associate, noting that they had maintained a cordial relationship spanning more than two decades. He commended the media entrepreneur for contributing to socioeconomic development through broadcasting, youth empowerment and job creation initiatives.
The former commissioner said seeking Ayefele’s support and blessing was important to his political journey, adding that governance requires consultation, experience and a clear understanding of the needs of the people.
“Governor Seyi Makinde has achieved several unprecedented milestones for this state, and my ambition is to consolidate on those achievements, build on his successes and sustain his legacies across all sectors of governance,” Adekanmbi said.
In his response, Ayefele urged the governorship hopeful to remain committed to sustaining the developmental strides recorded under the Makinde administration, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, education, healthcare, security and agribusiness. He equally noted that residents of Oyo State now expect continuity, accountability and performance-driven leadership from whoever succeeds the current governor.
“To be unbiased, I will demand assurances from you that you will sustain the legacies of Governor Makinde,” Ayefele said, adding that governance requires sincerity, courage and a strong commitment to public service.
