A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Femi Babalola, has described Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, as the most suitable presidential candidate for the party in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in an interview with Tribune Online on Tuesday in Ibadan, Babalola argued that Makinde’s achievements in various sectors as governor of Oyo State positioned him as a leader capable of correcting the country’s current challenges.
He criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing it of failing Nigerians with unfulfilled promises and worsening hunger across the federation.
“What the country needs now is a candidate with fresh ideas, and among all the aspiring contenders, Governor Makinde stands out as the one with the capacity to lead,” Babalola said.
According to him, by 2027, Makinde would have completed eight years as governor, giving him the needed experience to compete head-to-head with top contenders like Peter Obi.
“Governor Makinde has performed creditably well. Nobody scores 100 per cent in governance, but compared to past governors, he has done exceptionally,” he added.
On his own political ambition, Babalola said he may consider contesting for governor of Oyo State in 2027 if the calibre of aspirants fails to meet expectations.
“I will not support opportunists who take advantage of the system.
“I will only back candidates committed to the party and beneficial to the people,” he said, stressing that Oyo has remained a PDP stronghold since 2003.
Commenting on reports that the PDP may zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, Babalola declared his full support for the decision.
“If the party resolves to present a southern candidate, I am in full support.
“Let it be South versus South — we have the strength in the North,” he said.
